Five Jailed with Suspended Sentences for Racial Abuse of Vinicius Jr

 

Five Jailed with Suspended Sentences for Racial Abuse of Vinicius Jr as Spain Steps Up Fight Against Discrimination in Football

In a significant move against racism in Spanish football, five individuals have been handed suspended prison sentences for racially abusing Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr during a La Liga fixture earlier this season. La Liga officially announced the verdict on Wednesday, April 21, marking a turning point in the country’s approach to tackling discrimination in sports.

The incident occurred during a match between Real Madrid and Real Valladolid in December 2022. As Vinicius Jr was leaving the pitch following a substitution, he was subjected to racist chants and gestures from a section of the home fans. The Provincial Court of Valladolid found the perpetrators guilty and sentenced them each to one year in prison, in addition to financial penalties ranging from €1,080 to €1,620.

However, the court suspended the prison terms under the condition that the offenders refrain from any criminal activity over the next three years. Furthermore, they are banned from attending any football matches during that period.

La Liga played a pivotal role in securing the convictions by lodging the initial legal complaint and acting as the lead private prosecutor. The case was later joined by Vinicius Jr, Real Madrid, and the Spanish Public Prosecutor’s Office, demonstrating a united front in the fight against racism in football.

This court ruling is being hailed as a landmark in Spain’s legal response to racial abuse in sports. Unlike previous rulings that often treated such offenses merely as violations of personal dignity, this judgment recognizes the actions as hate crimes setting a stronger precedent for future cases.

“The decision sends a powerful message,” said a La Liga spokesperson. “Racist behavior has no place in football or in society. This is a win not only for Vinicius Jr but for every player who has faced discrimination on the field.”

This is not the first time Vinicius has been targeted. In another high-profile case, three Valencia supporters received eight-month sentences for racially abusing him, while a separate individual accepted a suspended 12-month sentence and agreed to undergo anti-discrimination training.

It’s important to note that in Spain, first-time offenders convicted of non-violent crimes and sentenced to less than two years typically do not serve actual prison time. However, the symbolic weight of the rulings is considered a crucial step forward.

The case underlines growing intolerance for racism within the sport and shows increasing willingness among Spanish legal authorities and football institutions to take firm action. With these developments, Spain appears to be sending a clear message: racial abuse in football will no longer be tolerated, and those responsible will face real consequences.