Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has said he cannot fight racism alone, urging more help in the battle against discrimination in football. The Brazilian, who has faced abuse at more than ten Spanish grounds, described the fight as everyone’s responsibility.
Speaking ahead of Brazil’s Black Consciousness Day, Vinícius highlighted recent progress, including the jailing of three Valencia fans for hate crimes – Spain’s first conviction of its kind – and the arrest of four men over an online hate campaign. In 2023, four people were arrested for hanging an effigy of the player from a bridge in Madrid.
Vinícius welcomed the crackdown, saying it was “very important” for deterrence. “I alone can’t fight all that Black people have been suffering,” he said, adding that he was happy to be a voice for those unable to speak out.
The 24-year-old described the battle as one involving the Brazilian Football Confederation, FIFA and players. He said he would continue to fight, even if it cost him awards, after suggesting his activism may have cost him this year’s Ballon d’Or, won by Manchester City’s Rodri.
