La Liga has condemned “hate speech” and says it will work with authorities after reports of racist chanting towards Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior.
La Liga has stated that it condemned racism and hate speech and will work with authorities after there are reports of racist chants directed at Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr.
Real Madrid won the derby against Atletico Madrid on Sunday and some of the Atletico Madrid fans allegedly sang racial song.
The racial abuse came after comment from Vinicius jr states that “the happiness of a black Brazilian in Europe” was behind recent criticism.
La Liga spokesperson said after the game that: “We denounce all incidents inside and outside stadiums.
“We work with clubs to keep our football friendly and enjoyable.”
The spokesperson added: “Hate speech has no place in La Liga and we always work with the clubs and the authorities to identify and bring to justice any such case.”
Comments have been drawn by pundits in Spain recently with the celebration dance by the Brazilian after scoring
Agent Pedro Bravo stated during a Spanish television discussion on Vinicius that “in Spain, you have to respect rivals and stop playing the monkey”, leading to accusations of racism. He has since apologised.
In a statement on Brazil international Vinicius, listed some stars who danced in their celebrations.
“Weeks ago, some people started to criticise my dancing. But the dancing is not mine alone,” he said.
“They belong to Ronaldinho, Neymar, [Lucas] Paqueta, [Antoine] Griezmann, Joao Felix, Matheus Cunha… Brazilian funk singers and samba dancers, Latin reggaeton singers, Black Americans. They are dances to celebrate the cultural diversity of the world.
“They say that happiness bothers. The happiness of a Black Brazilian being successful in Europe bothers much more. But my will to win, my smile and the sparkle in my eyes are much bigger than that.”
Vinicius was supported by several Brazilian football stars on social media, including Pele and Neymar, while Real Madrid also released a statement condemning the pundit’s comments on Friday.
“Real Madrid C. F. condemns all types of racist and xenophobic language and behaviour in football, sport and life in general, such as the regrettable and unfortunate comments made against our player Vinicius Junior in the last few hours.
“Real Madrid would like to express its affection and support for Vinicius Junior, a player who regards football as an attitude towards life through joy, respect and sportsmanship”,the statement reads.
“Football is the most global sport there is and should be a model of values and coexistence.
“The club has directed its legal services to take legal action against anyone who makes racist remarks towards our players.”
The criticism and racism did not stop Vinicius and his Brazilian team-mate Rodrygo dancing after the latter scored the opening goal at Wanda Metropolitano as Real Madrid won 2-1.
