June 11, (THEWILL)- In a groundbreaking judgement, three Valencia football supporters have been handed eight-month prison sentences for hate crimes against Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr, marking Spain’s first conviction for racist insults within a football stadium.
The court stated the defendants hurled racist chants, gestures, and slurs referencing the 23-year-old Brazilian’s skin colour during a May 2023 match, causing him humiliation and undermining his dignity.
The trio, who admitted to the charges, were found guilty of imitating monkey noises and movements towards the forward. Though unlikely to serve time due to Spanish laws on non-violent crimes for first-time offenders, they received two-year stadium bans and must cover legal costs. They also issued an apology letter to Vinicius, La Liga, and Real Madrid at the hearing.
La Liga President, Javier Tebas, lauded the ruling as a triumph in combating racism, sending a clear message that perpetrators face criminal repercussions. The incident sparked global outcry, rallying support for Vinicius and prompting the formation of a FIFA Anti-racism Committee involving players.
The UEFA Champions League winner and Ballon d’Or contender has endured 16 reported racist abuse cases over the past two seasons. In March, Vinicius emotionally urged Spanish authorities to act against the recurring mistreatment, which impacted his motivation and enjoyment of the sport.
The conviction comes amid heightened efforts against racism in Spanish football, with recent examples including a TV analyst’s dismissal over racist remarks, partial stadium closures for racist chants, and a match suspension after a Senegalese goalkeeper faced racial abuse.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
