Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior became emotional as he addressed questions concerning racism during a press conference ahead of Brazil’s friendly match against Spain at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Vinicius, who has been subjected to racist abuse on multiple occasions while playing in Spain, broke down in tears as he discussed the ongoing challenges he faces.
Expressing his distress, Vinicius stated, “I’m feeling worse and worse after every single case happens but I have to stand here. I’m not fighting against the Spanish fans, I’m fighting against racism around the world. I’ve asked UEFA, FIFA, or Conmebol for help, they are big entities who can fight against that. The main issue here is that in Spain, racism is not a crime.”
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, he continued, “Playing football is important but fighting racism is even more important so that black people can live a normal life. If that was the case I would play my team’s games focused on what matters. I want to keep playing so that everyone can live a normal life.”
Vinicius Jr got emotional during the press conference because all the questions were about racism…
“Sorry, I just want to play football, do everything for my club and my family.”
We are with you, @vinijr! 🥺🤍
— TC (@totalcristiano) March 25, 2024
The Brazil international has endured numerous instances of racist abuse in recent seasons.
They include Real’s derby win away over Atletico in September 2022, when Atletico condemned “unacceptable” chants by a “minority” of fans towards Vinicius outside their stadium before the game.
Last June, four men were fined 60,001 euros (£51,700) and given a two-year stadium ban for hanging an effigy of Vinicius near Real’s training ground in January 2023.
On the same day, three other people were fined 5,000 euros (£4,300) and banned for one year for making racist gestures during Real’s game at Valencia last May.
This season there have been reports of more racist abuse towards Vinicius as Real played at Sevilla in October, at Barcelona the following week and at Valencia earlier this month.