ERADICATING RACISM IN SPORTS: A MUST

The minor who directed racial slurs at Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr during a match against Rayo Vallecano last season has been penalized with a one-year ban from stadiums and a fine, the club reported on Friday, November 29.

The LaLiga champions disclosed that the minor confessed to the offense, issued a written apology, and accepted the sanctions from the Juvenile Prosecutor’s Office. Furthermore, the State Commission against Violence, Racism, Xenophobia, and Intolerance in Sport levied an undisclosed fine.

Real Madrid’s statement read, «The minor who racially insulted Vinicius Junior has apologized and shown remorse in a letter.» As part of an out-of-court agreement, the minor will engage in socio-educational activities recommended by the Juvenile Public Prosecutor’s Office and will be barred from attending official competitions for a year.

The club also highlighted that since June, four incidents of racism involving its players have been resolved through either the courts or juvenile authorities. The minor who racially abused midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni in April was similarly banned from stadiums for a year. Another fan found guilty of racially abusing Vinicius Jr and Villarreal’s Samuel Chukwueze during two matches in Mallorca last year received a suspended prison sentence.

This case highlights the urgent need to eliminate racism in sports and beyond, promoting a culture of respect and equality for everyone.

Main image: Vinicious Jr, a Brazilian player, points out the perpetrators of racist abuse at Valencia in May last year. Photo by Getty Images.