CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues, while with the Brazilian team in the United States, spoke about the recent sentencing of three Valencia fans for racially abusing Vini Júnior.
The Spanish court handed down eight-month prison terms and two-year stadium bans for the incident at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium in May 2023.
Rodrigues called the sentence too mild but noted it as a step towards a global legal standard against racism.
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++ Three Valencia fans sentenced to 8 months in prison for racist insults to Vinicius
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Rodrigues emphasized the CBF’s active stance against racism since his term began. The federation pushed FIFA, UEFA, and Conmebol for stricter penalties beyond fines, advocating for sports penalties instead.
Under his guidance, the CBF became the first football body to implement such penalties in its rules, aiming to address the growing issue of racism in sports globally.
Presidente da CBF diz que mais um passo foi dado com a condenação dos agressores de Vinicius Jrhttps://t.co/cOxHbb4qWh
— CBF Futebol (@CBF_Futebol) June 10, 2024
He also pointed out the strategic decision to play friendlies in Spain, where Vini Júnior faced significant racism. This move was meant to confront the issue head-on and signal an end to such behavior.
Rodrigues pressed the need for ongoing efforts, noting that when Vini Júnior was discriminated against, the CBF did not stay silent. This highlighted the role of authorities in Spain and Brazil to actively seek justice, showing a commitment to fighting racism not just in football but across all segments of society.
Remembering Zagallo
Sambafoot Series launched a new documentary about the football legend Zagallo. Known as ‘Velho Lobo‘ and as superstitious as it gets, Zagallo helped shape what Brazilian football is nowadays — as a player and as a coach.
Binge the full series, available on Sambafoot’s Youtube channel.
