Groundbreaking Ruling Sets Precedent
Three Valencia fans have been handed eight-month prison sentences for racially insulting Real Madrid forward Vinicius Júnior during a Spanish league match in May 2023. This verdict marks the first conviction for racism-related cases in professional soccer in Spain.
“This first criminal conviction in Spanish history is not for me. It’s for all black people,” Vinicius Junior said in response to the ruling.
The fans, whose names were not revealed, were found guilty of a crime against moral integrity with the aggravating circumstance of discrimination based on racist motives. Additionally, they are banned from entering soccer stadiums for two years and must pay for the court proceedings.
Turning Point in the Fight Against Racism
The incident at Mestalla Stadium last year sparked an outpouring of support for Vinicius, who is Black, and set off widespread calls for action by Spanish authorities and society. Many saw it as a turning point in the fight against racism in Spanish soccer.
“This sentence is great news for the fight against racism in Spain, as it goes some way to redressing the disgraceful wrong suffered by Vinícius and sends a clear message to those individuals who go to a football stadium to hurl abuse,” said Javier Tebas, Spanish league president.
Continued Struggle Against Racism
Despite the initial uproar, Vinicius continued to face racist abuse in the months following the Mestalla incident. The case was brought before the courts by the Spanish league, joined by the Spanish soccer federation, Real Madrid, and Vinicius himself.
“Together with Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid has acted as the private prosecutor in these proceedings and shall continue to work to protect the values of our club and to eradicate any racist behaviour from the world of football and sport,” Real Madrid stated.
A Powerful Message and a Call for Change
Vinicius, who has been a target of racist abuse since joining Real Madrid in 2018, sent a powerful message with his response to the ruling. He urged racists to “be afraid, ashamed and hide in the shadows,” vowing to continue fighting against discrimination.
“Thank you to La Liga and Real Madrid for helping to bring about this historic verdict. There’s more to come…” Vinicius wrote, indicating that the battle is far from over.
While the eight-month sentences were reduced due to the defendants’ cooperation and remorse, the ruling represents a significant step forward in combating racism in Spanish soccer.
However, as highlighted by the Brazilian football federation president, harsher punishments may still be needed to truly eradicate this issue from the sport.
