In a groundbreaking decision, three fans have been sentenced to eight months in prison and banned from stadiums for two years due to the racist abuse directed at Vinícius Júnior during a match at Mestalla in May 2023. This incident occurred during Real Madrid’s LaLiga game against Valencia, which led to global outrage. The Brazilian player identified the individual responsible for the racial abuse, resulting in the match being paused.
Response from Vinícius Júnior
Vinícius Júnior publicly criticized the handling of the issue by Spanish authorities, expressing that racism is normalized in LaLiga. He emphasized that he is not a victim of racism but rather an opponent of racists. The player sees this legal action as a victory not just for himself but for all individuals who have faced racial discrimination.
The fans were found guilty of a crime against moral integrity, with the discrimination being racially motivated. They were sentenced to a year in prison, reduced to eight months due to accepting criminal responsibility. Additionally, they received a two-year stadium ban and were ordered to pay costs. The judge will decide on the suspension of their sentences at a later date. LaLiga commended the verdict, highlighting its significance in the fight against racism.
LaLiga president Javier Tebas praised the ruling as a milestone in combating racism in Spain. The league vows to identify and report individuals who engage in abusive behavior, emphasizing the need for legislative changes to expedite the process of addressing racism. Real Madrid expressed their commitment to eradicating racism and acknowledged the defendants’ apology to Vinícius Júnior and the club.
The legal action taken against the racist fans marks a significant step towards promoting inclusivity and condemning discriminatory behavior in sports. It serves as a reminder that there is no place for racism in any form and underscores the importance of accountability and consequences for such actions. Vinícius Júnior’s stance against racism and his call for others to speak out against discriminatory behavior set a powerful precedent for standing up against injustice.
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