Football fan sentenced for racially abusing Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr
A Mallorca fan has been handed a 12-month suspended prison sentence and a three-year stadium ban for racially abusing Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr and former Villarreal player Samuel Chukwueze.
The conviction marks the third recent case of racist abuse against Real Madrid players in Spanish football.
The supporter was found guilty of two crimes against moral integrity, aggravated by racist motives, towards both players.
The incidents occurred during separate matches at Mallorca's Son Moix stadium in February 2023.
Real Madrid released a statement confirming the court's decision, emphasising their commitment to eradicating racist behaviour in football and sport.
During the Mallorca v Real Madrid match on 5 February 2023, supporters could be heard in video calling Vinicius Jr a monkey.
Vinicius Jr was subjected to racist abuse last year
PA
Two weeks later, the same fan directed similar racist insults at Chukwueze during a match between Mallorca and Villarreal.
The court sentenced the man to 12 months in prison, suspended on condition that he apologises and shows remorse with a letter to Vinicius Jr.
He must also participate in an equal treatment and anti-discrimination programme.
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The three-year stadium ban applies to venues hosting LaLiga or Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) matches.
Real Madrid's statement highlighted that this is the third criminal conviction in recent months for racist abuse against their players.
The club vowed to "keep working to protect the club's values and eradicate any racist behaviour in the world of football and sport".
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In a related case, a minor who racially insulted Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni in April has also been punished.
The youth received a one-year stadium ban and must pay a fine of €7,001.
These incidents have sparked debate in Spain, where racism in football stadiums has been a persistent issue for decades.
Vinicius Jr has been vocal about racism in Spanish football, recently calling for Spain to be stripped of its 2030 World Cup hosting duties unless progress is made on the issue.
Vinicius Jr has been vocal about racism in Spain
Reuters
The Brazilian forward has faced numerous instances of abuse since joining Real Madrid in 2018.
The upcoming Madrid derby at Atletico's Metropolitano stadium on Sunday raises concerns, as Vinicius has previously been subjected to racist abuse there.
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Vinicius Jr's abuser has been handed a 12-month suspended sentence
PA
In June, three Valencia fans were sentenced to eight months in prison for racist insults directed at Vinicius during a match in May 2023.
These incidents have sparked international outrage and intensified efforts to combat racism in Spanish football.