Vinícius Júnior has urged the football world to intensify efforts against racism, insisting that the battle cannot be left to him alone. The Real Madrid forward, speaking in a video released by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), acknowledged that progress has been made but stressed that more collective action is required.
The 24-year-old, who has been subjected to abuse at more than ten Spanish stadiums, said the recent jailing of individuals for racial insults was an encouraging sign. "In the last three months, we have managed to put three or four individuals behind bars and hold them accountable for the crimes they committed," he said. He added that while he still suffers abuse in Spain, the situation is easing thanks to the efforts of clubs and authorities.
Vinícius's comments come after four men were arrested in Spain over an online hate campaign against him. Earlier, three Valencia fans received eight-month prison sentences for hate crimes in what was reported as the first conviction of its kind in the country. In 2023, four people were arrested for hanging an effigy of the forward from a bridge in Madrid.
Describing the crackdown as "very important" for deterrence, Vinícius said the fight against racism involved the CBF, Fifa and players collectively. "Any help is very welcome. Black people have been suffering for a long time, and the time has to come when all this has to end," he said. He also expressed contentment at being a voice for those unable to speak out, saying he has the strength and platform to represent them.
The Brazilian's remarks come ahead of Brazil's Black Consciousness Day on 20 November. In October, Vinícius hinted that his anti-racism activism may have cost him the Ballon d'Or, which was awarded to Manchester City's Rodri. He posted on social media: "I will do it 10 times if I have to. They're not ready." Sources later said he and his management believed the football world was not ready to accept a player who fights against the system.
