Real Madrid Star Vinicius Junior Slams LaLiga for Normalising Racism
Key Highlights :
Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior has launched a scathing attack on LaLiga, saying the league that once belonged with the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo now "belongs to racists". The Brazilian was sent off on Sunday night as Los Blancos suffered a 1-0 defeat to Valencia at the Mestalla after hitting out at Hugo Duro, who seemed to have the winger in a chokehold during a scuffle.
Tensions were high as the match was suspended for several minutes after the 22-year-old pointed out that he was being racially abused by Valencia supporters. Taking to social media after the game, Vinicius said racism has become normalised in Spain's top division and said he does not blame those in Brazil who now perceive Spain to be a "country of racists".
"It wasn't the first time, nor the second, nor the third. Racism is normal in LaLiga," he wrote in a post on Twitter, according to . "The competition thinks it's normal, the [Spanish Football] Federation does too and the opponents encourage it.
"I'm so sorry. The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano [Ronaldo] and [Lionel] Messi today belongs to racists. A beautiful nation, which welcomed me and which I love, but which agreed to export the image of a racist country to the world.
"I'm sorry for the Spaniards who don't agree, but today, in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists. And unfortunately, for everything that happens each week, I have no defence. I agree."
But Vinicius is not backing down in his fight against racism. He has vowed to continue to stand up against discrimination and has received the support of his manager, Carlo Ancelotti, who called for change in a post-match press conference. Real Madrid have also filed up to eight legal complaints related to racial attacks on the ex-Flamengo teenager.
It is clear that racism is still a major problem in LaLiga and in football in general. In order to combat this issue, there needs to be a concerted effort from all stakeholders in the game. This includes clubs, players, the Spanish Football Federation, and the fans.
Clubs must take a zero-tolerance approach to racism, and any form of discrimination should be met with swift and severe punishment. Players must also be willing to speak out against racism whenever it occurs, and the Spanish Football Federation must ensure that clubs are held accountable for their actions.
Finally, fans must be educated on the issue of racism and must be made aware of the consequences of their actions. Racism has no place in football, and it is up to all of us to ensure that it is stamped out for good.
