Vinicius Jr tells racist abusers to ‘hide’ following jail sentences for Valencia fans

Vinicius Jr received justice for racist abuse from opposition fans, feeling vindicated for taking action.

June 10, 2024

Vini Jr Sends Warning To Racists — Marvin Ibo Guengoer - GES Sportfoto/Getty Images

Having received justice for just one instance of the appalling racist abuse directed at him by opposing fans, Vinicius Jr felt justifiably vindicated in taking action against his abusers.

Three Valencia fans identified by Vinicius during a match at Mestalla in May 2023 were sentenced to eight months in prison and banned from football for two years. These convictions mark the first of their kind in Spanish football history.

“Many asked me to ignore it, many others said that my fight was in vain and that I should just ‘play football’,” Vini said. “But, as I’ve always said, I’m not a victim of racism. I am a tormentor of racists. This first criminal conviction in the history of Spain is not for me. It’s for all black people. May other racists be afraid, ashamed and hide in the shadows. Otherwise, I’ll be here to collect. Thank you to La Liga and Real Madrid for helping with this historic conviction. More to come…”

A La Liga and Champions League winner in 2023-24, Vinicius is already a leading contender for the 2024 Ballon d’Or, alongside teammate Jude Bellingham. His chances for the prize would be further bolstered with a successful campaign for Brazil at the Copa America, starting June 20.

Muitos pediram para que eu ignorasse, outros tantos disseram que minha luta era em vão e que eu deveria apenas “jogar futebol”.

Mas, como sempre disse, não sou vítima de racismo. Eu sou algoz de racistas. Essa primeira condenação penal da história da Espanha não é por mim. É por… https://t.co/NdezpJBjF2

— Vini Jr. (@vinijr) June 10, 2024