Three Valencia fans received eight-month jail sentences for racially abusing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior, marking Spain’s first such conviction, announced a court on Monday.
The individuals, unnamed in the report, were found guilty of an offence against moral integrity aggravated by racial discrimination, as stated by the Valencia court. Additionally, they were handed a two-year ban from attending matches. Given their lack of prior criminal records, none will serve jail time, as is customary for first-time offenders with sentences under two years.
La Liga commended the verdict as a significant step in combating racism within Spanish football. Javier Tebas, president of La Liga, emphasized the message it sends to those who engage in such behavior, underscoring the league’s commitment to prosecuting offenders and ensuring they face legal consequences.
The incident occurred during a match between Real Madrid and Valencia at the Mestalla stadium on May 21, 2023. Vinicius Junior was subjected to racist abuse, prompting a halt in play as he pointed out the perpetrators. Court documents revealed that the individuals directed racist chants and gestures at the player, causing him distress and humiliation.
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Real Madrid acknowledged the offenders’ admission of guilt and their apology to Vinicius and the club, urging fans to reject racism and intolerance.
This incident adds to a series of racist attacks against Vinicius since his arrival at Real Madrid in 2018. The outcry sparked by this incident prompted Brazil to lodge a diplomatic protest and illuminate Rio de Janeiro’s Christ the Redeemer statue in solidarity.
Real Madrid promptly filed a criminal complaint, leading to the arrest of three individuals on suspicion of a hate crime. Vinicius’s experience highlights the ongoing issue of racism in Spanish football, prompting a broader discussion about the country’s efforts to address it.
