Racists should be banned from stadiums, says Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr.
MADRID – Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr believes fans convicted of racist abuse should be banned from matches for life.
The 22-year-old Brazilian was a victim of abuse in September when Atletico Madrid fans were videotaped live racist chants at him outside their Wanda Metropolitano stadium before the match with Real.
“If you hurt others, you have to pay the price,” Vinicius told Brazilian TV channel Globo on Sunday.
“It’s hard to say that (racism in football) will end with so many people still doing it. But I prefer to believe that there are more good people than bad.
“All racists pay the price in some way. If they love to watch football, then those Atletico Madrid fans should never be allowed to step foot in a stadium again.
“That will make them suffer the consequences and reflect on their actions.”
Atletico and LaLiga condemn abuse directed at Vinicius during the Madrid derby, which Real won 2-1.
Local media also reported that monkey cries and chants of “Vinicius, die” were heard throughout the game.
Atletico said it was working with authorities to identify abusers who would be banned by the club.
Madrid’s Public Prosecutor’s Office is also investigating the case.
Pele, Neymar and other top Brazilian figures defended Vinicius that same week after a pundit on a football show in Spain said the Brazilian didn’t respect opponents with celebratory displays. his behavior, compare his behavior to that of a monkey.
Vinicius published an emotional two-minute video in response to what he called the “xenophobic and racist” insult, saying he “won’t stop dancing” and that “the the happiness of a successful black Brazilian in Europe annoys” many people.
Real Madrid have released a statement in support of their player and announced they will take legal action against the specialist.
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