“Vinicius’ allegations are unfair. Racism is extremely rare in La Liga.”
La Liga president Javier Tebas, 63, also criticized Vinicius Junior, 23, of Real Madrid.
Vinicius was racially abused by Valencia fans during the 35th round Spanish Primera Liga match between Valencia and Real Madrid at the Estadio de Mestalla in Valencia, Spain, on Sept. 22.
Vinicius was called a “monkey” before the game even started, with some fans making monkey noises at him. During the match, Valencia fans also reportedly spat racial slurs at him.
After the game, Vinicius vowed to fight racism: “It’s not the first time, it’s not the second time, it’s not the third time. Racism is a normal behavior in La Liga. The competitors think it’s normal and so does the federation,” he wrote on social media, adding that “the league that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi now belongs to racists.”
Vinicius also said, “I’m sorry to the Spaniards, but in Brazil today, Spain is known as a country of racists. Unfortunately, I have no way to defend myself against this, which happens every week. But I am strong and I will fight against racists,” he criticized.
Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) President Infantino also supported Vinicius: “I express my full solidarity and support to Vinicius. Racism has no place in soccer or in society. We will support and help all players who have experienced racism in this way.”
Real Madrid and coach Carlo Ancelotti also called on La Liga to address the issue. Brazilian President Lula also called on FIFA, La Liga, and other soccer organizations to take action to stamp out racism, saying, “It’s not fair that Vinicius is insulted at every stadium he goes to.”
It’s a hard reaction to understand. Whether La Liga is trying or not, there’s no denying that racism is rampant in Spanish soccer right now. Just look at the video released by Vinicius, which shows a group of fans chanting “monkeys” at the top of their lungs. It’s not just Atletico Madrid, Real Valladolid, Mallorca, Barcelona, Valencia, or any one team 메이저사이트.
Most importantly, Vinicius is still exposed to racism, and it’s imperative that this behavior is addressed. This isn’t the time to turn the tables on Vinicius and point fingers at him.
Fans are also harshly criticizing Tebas. “You’re a racist too,” “This is ridiculous,” “I’m embarrassed for a president to say this,” “Black players are greeted with respect and love by fans every week? You know it’s a lie,” and more.