The state of Rio de Janeiro has passed the “Vinicius Junior Law” which will suspend football matches in the event of racist behavior at the stadium. This measure reflects Brazil’s commitment to the fight against racism in sport and sets precedent in the Brazilian sports landscape.
The law was proposed in the state legislature by Congressman Josemar to promote respect and establish a protocol to combat racism at stadiums. This decision follows the racial abuse suffered by Vini in different away games with Real Madrid in LaLiga.
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Cases of racism in Brazilian stadiums have reportedly increased by 40%
Reports of racism in football stadiums increased by 40% in Brazil in 2022, according to the Observatory of Racial Discrimination in Football. In order to put an end to this trend, the “Vinicius Junior Law” provides for the interruption of matches for a fixed period in the event of proven racist behavior, and the possibility of suspending events in the event of a repeat offence.
These kinds of measures are an important stepping stone to combat racial discrimination in sports, and they’re also the types of actions Vini has been claiming for in Spain. Hopefully, the football community becomes a safer environment and we don’t have to continue talking about this embarrassing situations.
