October 30 – Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona in El Clasico on Sunday was marred by yet more racist chanting targeted at their Brazilian forward Vinicius Jr and La Liga are working with the police to identify the perpetrators.
Vinicius Jr has frequently been targeted by supporters of other clubs over the past few years. In January, an effigy of him was hung from a bridge near Real’s training ground before a game against cross-town rivals Atletico Madrid.
Prior to Sunday’s match, videos were circulating on social media showing Barcelona fans chanting ‘Vinicius, die’.
After he was subbed by manager Carlo Ancelotti in stoppage time, it is alleged that he suffered a barrage of racist abuse.
“La Liga has been working from the outset to identify the individuals involved in making racist insults and will file the relevant charges as is always the case,” a statement from Spain’s top flight said. “We are in direct contact with the police and FC Barcelona.”
In their own statement Barcelona added: “We will always defend the values of football and sport such as respect for the opponent and we will investigate any racist insult that may have occurred this afternoon during the match against Real Madrid.”
Vinicius was chosen in June to head up FIFA’s anti-racism committee, run by players and advocating greater punishments towards those found guilty of racist abuse.
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