Afro-Brazillian player and Real Madrid forward, Vinicius Jr believes fans found guilty of racial abuse should be banned from watching live games.
The 22-year-old Brazilian was the victim of physical abuse in September when Atletico Madrid fans shouted racist chants at him outside the Wanda Metropolitano stadium ahead of a match against Real Madrid.
“It’s hard to say (racism in football) is going to end when so many people are still doing it. But I like to believe that there are more good people than bad people,” the footballer said.
“If you hurt other people, you have to pay,” Vinicius told TV Globo on Sunday.
Vinicius added; “All racist people have to pay somehow. If they enjoy watching football, then these Atletico Madrid fans should never be allowed to set foot in a stadium again. It will make them face the consequences and think about their actions.”
Atlético and LaLiga condemned the abuse against Vinicius before the Madrid derby, which Real won 2-1.
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Local media also reported that monkey noises and cries of “Vinicius, die” can be heard throughout the game.
Atlético said it was working with authorities to identify perpetrators who would be banned from the club.
The Madrid Public Ministry is also investigating the case.
Pele, Neymar and other prominent Brazilian figures defended Vinicius the same week after a commentator said on a Spanish football show that the Brazilian disrespects his opponents with his celebrations, comparing his behavior to a monkey.
Vinicius released an emotional two-minute video statement in response to what he called a “xenophobic and racist” insult, saying that “he will not stop dancing” and that “the happiness of a black Brazilian living in Europe bothers many people.”
Real Madrid released a statement supporting their player and saying they will take legal action against the commentator.
