FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the Spanish court’s decision on Monday to sentence three Valencia fans to eight months in prison for racially abusing Real Madrid and Brazil striker Vinícius Júnior. The incident took place at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium in May 2023, where fans called him “monkey.”
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++ Three Valencia fans sentenced to 8 months in prison for racist insults to Vinicius
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++ Brazilian state enacts ‘Vini Jr.’ law to end racism in football
FIFA’s statement
Speaking at the FIFA Congress in Thailand on May 17, Infantino outlined measures to fight racism. He noted the need for legal action against racist acts and for FIFA’s 211 member federations to include strict penalties for racism in their rules.
“This decision aligns with our goal to remove racism from football,” Infantino said. He stressed that legal action is a key tool in this fight.
First of its kind
The conviction marks a first in Spain for racism in sports. Though many fans were involved, only three were caught and charged. They now face a two-year stadium ban and must pay the legal costs.
La Liga has taken a strong stance against racism, implementing over 700 anti-racism projects in the last eight years.
Vinícius Júnior took to social media to voice his stance. “I’m not a victim but a fighter against racists,” he said. He sees the conviction as a win for all black people and a warning to racists.
As he prepares for the Copa América in the United States, he thanked La Liga and Real Madrid for their support. Real Madrid also vowed to keep fighting racism and uphold the club’s values.
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.
