Despite his impressive performances, which included scoring the winning goal in Real Madrid’s 14th European Cup victory, Vinícius has faced repeated incidents of hate crimes.
Vinícius Jr., the talented 22-year-old football player for Real Madrid, has been a victim of racist abuse in Spain
Examples include an effigy of him being hanged from a bridge and racist slurs captured on camera during matches. Unlike in England, where football authorities can punish clubs or fans for racist abuse, La Liga, Spain’s top football division, lacks the authority to do so. Incidents of abuse are referred to the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) or regional prosecutors for legal action and potential sporting sanctions. However, investigations have been slow and punishments have been minor fines, leading to criticism that the system is failing.
Piara Powar, the executive director of the Fare Network, an organization combating discrimination in European football, criticized the Spanish football authorities for handling racist abuse incidents. He highlighted the lack of understanding and disconnection of those involved in the decision-making process. Powar suggested adopting a centralized template similar to UEFA’s approach to disciplinary regulations to improve the system.
LaLiga has reported a total of 12 cases of racist abuse against Black players, with eight of them involving Vinícius. Some issues have been archived without punishments due to the inability to identify perpetrators or because they did not meet the criteria for criminal charges.
The slow and convoluted process in Spain contrasts with recent cases in England, where perpetrators have faced swift bans
Vinícius has been vocal about the need for action against racism, but his pleas have largely gone unanswered. Some media outlets have even attempted to blame him for the abuse he faces, insinuating that his style of play or goal celebrations provoke the incidents.
Efforts are being made to address the issue of racism in Spanish football. The Spanish Players’ Union (AFE) and the Movement Against Intolerance have joined forces to develop campaigns, training programs, and awareness-raising initiatives. They aim to tackle racism as a societal issue, working together on criminal cases and reporting incidents to the Hate Crimes Prosecutor.
Unfortunately, Spain’s complex and slow process suggests that justice for players like Vinícius may be delayed or elusive.
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