Several individuals have faced consequences for their racist actions directed towards Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr., according to Spanish authorities.
Seven people have been fined and banned due to racially abusing Vinicius throughout the season, as announced by Spanish officials.
In January, four men received €60,000 (£52,000/$64,000) fines and a two-year matchday ban for displaying an effigy of the Brazilian winger near Valdebebas, Madrid’s training ground.
Additionally, three individuals were fined €5,000 (£4,300/$5,400) each and prohibited from entering stadiums for a year after making racist gestures towards Vinicius during Madrid’s match against Valencia in May. This incident led to a temporary suspension of play for several minutes. The three offenders had been detained for two days following the match.
Vinicius has consistently faced abuse from rival fans throughout the 2022-23 season, prompting Real Madrid to file official complaints at ten of the 19 away stadiums where Los Blancos played.
Although action was taken by Spanish authorities, La Liga has shown less inclination to mete out punishments. Valencia had a portion of their renowned Mestalla stadium closed for five games and received a fine, but this penalty was later reduced. Other clubs, however, have not faced sanctions from the league or football federation.
Expressing his discontent with the league’s lack of action, Vinicius took to social media, stating, “The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano [Ronaldo], and [Lionel] Messi today belongs to racists.” This statement sparked a high-profile Twitter dispute with league president Javier Tebas, who later issued an apology.
