"Racism in Spanish stadiums existed even before I was born" - Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr sends strong message after Valencia incident
Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior sent a message on social media after being the victim of racism against Valencia at the weekend. Fans at the Mestalla hurled racist chants at the Brazilian superstar during Madrid's 1-0 La Liga loss.
The player was even sent off as a result of a melee that took place at the tail end of the game. However, the reception that Vinicius received from fans was deemed unacceptable by many.
The player has now referred to a stadium incident from 1997 to point out that racism in the Spanish top flight has existed for a long time. He wrote on Twitter:
"1997. Racism in Spanish stadiums existed even before I was born. What has changed until today?”
1997
El racismo en los estadios españoles existía antes mismo de que yo hubiera nacido.
Qué ha cambiado hasta hoy? twitter.com/jonasgutf/stat…
La Liga president Javier Tebas and Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior got into verbal argument
After Vinicius was heckled by fans during Madrid's La Liga showdown against Valencia, the Real Madrid winger said that La Liga hasn't taken any action despite incidents of racism repeating time and again.
La Liga president Javier Tebas issued a response to the Real Madrid attacker. He took to Twitter to post a lengthy message and urged the Brazilian not to get manipulated. Tebas wrote:
"Since those who should not explain to you what it is and what it can do @LaLiga in cases of racism, we have tried to explain it to you, but you have not shown up for either of the two agreed dates that you requested yourself.
"Before criticising and insulting @LaLiga, it is necessary that you inform yourself properly @Vinijr. Do not let yourself be manipulated and make sure you fully understand each other's competencies and the work we have been doing together."
Vinicius didn't hold back in his response, reacting to Tebas' comments:
"Once again, instead of criticising racists, the president of LaLiga appears on social media to attack me. As much as you talk and pretend not to read, the image of your championship is shaken.
"See the responses to your posts and have a surprise ... Omitting yourself only makes you equal to racists. I'm not your friend to talk about racism. I want actions and punishments. Hashtag doesn't move me."
The Real Madrid attacker is one of the team's finest players. Hence, it's appalling to see the treatment he has received from fans. It will be interesting how the Vinicius saga unfolds.