Disgusted by racism targeting Vinicius Junior, his Brazilian hometown rallies to defend him

27.05.2023 - 13:39 cbc.ca

The chants of "monkey!" at the Spanish soccer stadium echoed across the Atlantic, reaching the ears of people on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro.

That's where Vinicius Junior, who is Black, grew up and launched his soccer career. Now, despite his global fame and millions, he was again the target of crude European racism.

His city in multiracial Brazil was sickened, and has rallied to his defence. In Sao Goncalo, rapper Deivisson Oliveira was eating breakfast when the TV news showed the abuse aimed at his hometown hero. "I needed to cry out," said Oliveira, 30, who raps under the name MC Menor do CPX. WATCH | Vinicius Junior victim of racial abuse: Oliveira typed lyrics on his phone with his 6-month-old son at his feet.

Powerful verses surged through his thumbs: "From the favela to the world: Strength, Vinicius Junior!" Vinicius' 2017 move to Real Madrid was the culmination of years of effort.

Flamengo Spain Brazil Usa Rio De Janeiro

Around 100 Brazilian protestors gathered outside the Spanish consulate in Sao Paulo on Tuesday to condemn the racist abuse of Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior in Spain’s La Liga.

Vinicius Junior: Brazil and Spain to play friendly as part of anti-racism campaign in support of Real Madrid star

Brazil and Spain are to play in a friendly as part of an anti-racism campaign in support of Real Madrid striker Vinicius Junior. The friendly will be played at Santiago Bernabeu in March as announced by Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) president Luis Rubiales who met Brazilian CBF counterpart, Ednaldo Rodrigues. Ad Brazil international Vinicius has been repeatedly targeted by racist abuse this season in La Liga while representing Los Blancos.

Brazil State Approves 'Vinicius Junior's Law' Against Football Racism

Legislators in the Brazilian state of Rio de Janeiro approved a law on Tuesday to curtail football matches affected by racist abuse, after a wave of disgust over the treatment of Vinicius Junior. The Real Madrid star, a native of the state, has been targeted multiple times by terrace racists over the past two years in Spain. State deputy Prof. Josemar, who drafted the legislation, said the winger's treatment "reinforced the need to create a policy to encourage respect, as well as a protocol to combat racism in stadiums."

Valencia's punishment amended for racist abuse towards Vinicius Junior with a reduced stadium closure time and fine

Valencia has had its punishment amended following the racist abuse aimed at Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior by fans during their recent clash. The Spanish Football Federation appeals committee has decided to «partially uphold» Valencia's appeal, resulting in a reduction of the club's penalties. Ad Initially, Valencia faced a five-match partial closure of the Mestalla Stadium and a €45,000 fine.