Racism in Football: Vinicius Jr Subject to Abuse During El Clasico
Saturday’s El Clasico between Real Madrid and Barcelona was marred by racist abuse aimed at Vinicius Jr. The Brazil international was reportedly subjected to monkey chants and had a banana thrown at him during the match, which Real Madrid won 2-1.
Former Manchester City star Ilkay Gundogan put Barcelona 1-0 up at the Nou Camp before England international Jude Bellingham netted a wondergoal and produced a 92nd-minute winner.
The incident occurred when Vinicius Jr, 23, was substituted in the 96th minute as he faced the stands. It is the second La Liga game in a row Vinicius Jr has been targeted by racists after he was the subject of vile abuse from Sevilla fans during Real Madrid’s 1-1 draw there last weekend.
Vinicius Jr: “Spain Belongs to Racists”
In May, Vinicius Jr said that Spain ‘belongs to racists’ after he was abused during a match against Valencia at the Mestalla. Meanwhile, Barcelona apologised to Vinicius Jr in the build-up to this weekend’s El Clasico after one of their club directors dismissed the racial abuse the Real Madrid star has received and said he ‘deserves a slap’.
‘It’s not racism, he deserves a slap for being a clown and a joker, what do those unnecessary and pointless stepovers in the middle of the pitch mean?’ Barcelona board member Miquel Camps posted on Twitter on Tuesday night before it was quickly deleted.
Xavi: “We Need Fair Play and Mutual Admiration”
Barcelona boss Xavi attempted to cool tensions ahead of El Clasico, saying: ‘If he [Camps] deleted it, there is no need for me to say anything. I don’t like anything that generates tension, whether it’s trying to condition referees or this tweet. We need a Clasico with fair play and with mutual admiration.’
Racism in Football: A Growing Problem
The incident involving Vinicius Jr is just the latest example of racism in football. In recent years, there have been numerous reports of players being subjected to racist abuse both on and off the pitch. This has led to calls for tougher punishments for those found guilty of racism in football.
In October, Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho was facing a ban after using a gorilla emoji on a picture with black teammate Axel Tuanzebe. Meanwhile, Ajax goalkeeper Andre Onana was also subjected to racist abuse on social media following his side’s Champions League defeat to Liverpool.
What Can Be Done?
The incidents involving Vinicius Jr and other players have highlighted the need for tougher punishments for those found guilty of racism in football. UEFA has recently introduced new guidelines which could see clubs and players handed hefty fines or even bans if they are found guilty of racism.
In addition, football authorities must continue to work with clubs, players and fans to educate them about racism and its consequences. This includes providing support for those who have been victims of racism and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable for their actions.
Conclusion
Racism has no place in football or any other sport. The incident involving Vinicius Jr is just the latest example of how racism continues to be an issue in football. It is essential that football authorities take action to ensure that those found guilty of racism are punished accordingly and that support is provided for victims of racism.