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Shocked, Brazilians stand in solidarity with footballer Vinícius after acts of racism

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In Rio de Janeiro, the statue of Christ the Redeemer remained without illumination to condemn racist attacks targeting Real Madrid striker Vinícius Junior on May 22, 2023. © Pilar Olivares / Reuters

Text by: RFI Follow

2 min

In Brazil, the Vinícius Junior case is making a lot of noise. Real Madrid's Brazilian striker was once again a victim of racism during a match against Valencia on Sunday (May 21st), when he was called a monkey by Spanish fans. Since 2021, this is the tenth time he has faced fan racism in this country, and it's high time that changed, according to Brazilians.

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With our correspondent in Rio de Janeiro, Sarah Cozzolino

In Rio de Janeiro, even Christ the Redeemer remained in darkness for an hour, in solidarity with Vinícius Junior. A shocking and unfortunately recurring case, according to Antonio Carlos: "It was not five or ten people, it was almost half the stadium, it's humiliating. Being called a monkey is an aggression. He has black skin, but his heart is pure, like everyone else.

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On social networks, Vinícius Junior denounced the racism of La Liga, a courageous act, according to Georges: "He is becoming a reference of resistance, like Lewis Hamilton in Formula 1. " This physical education student regrets the lack of sanctions from La Liga: "The team should be penalized, just like the fans, with financial and judicial sanctions. Because racism is a crime.

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For her friend Ayla, it is the whole culture of Spanish football that needs to be questioned: "I do not believe that removing seven fans changes the problem. As long as the way of thinking of La Liga and its leaders does not change, things will remain the same. Because they treat Vinícius Junior, who is a victim, as if he were guilty.

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The Spanish federation has finally announced the cancellation of the suspension of Vinícius Junior, who is scheduled on the pitch this Wednesday evening, May 24.

In other cities, demonstrations were held against acts of racism against Vinícius Junior. Here, the message "La Liga racist" is projected on the façade of the Spanish consulate as protesters gather in São Paulo, May 23, 2023. © Tuane Fernandes / AP

► Also listen: Vinicius Junior case in Spain: "Racism is installed and structural in football stadiums"

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Read on on the same topics:

  • Brazil
  • Racism
  • Football
  • Sports
  • Spain