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In a recent La Liga clash between Sevilla and Real Madrid, the beautiful game was marred by an ugly incident when a fan racially abused Real Madrid's Brazilian forward, Vinícius Júnior. However, what stood out in this unfortunate episode was the swift and proactive response by Sevilla FC in tackling the issue.
During the intense 1-1 draw at the Sanchez Pizjuan stadium, images circulated showing a fan making a racist gesture towards Vinícius. This incident was sadly not isolated, as Vinícius has faced racial slurs from opposition supporters on multiple occasions. Earlier this month, he testified in the trial of three Valencia fans accused of racially abusing him.
However, what differentiates this incident is Sevilla's immediate and decisive action. The club identified the perpetrator, ejected him from the stadium, and handed him to legal authorities. In a statement, Sevilla condemned the “xenophobic and racist behavior,” asserting their commitment to ensuring such behavior has no place within the club. The fan will also face the club's rigorous internal disciplinary protocols, including revoking his membership.
Não é possível que a La Liga seja tão conivente assim e não tome uma atitude, é simplesmente absurdo o que vem acontecendo com o Vinicius Jr.
Mais uma vez o jogador brasileiro é vítima de racismo na Espanha. Chega, basta… pic.twitter.com/On47LE5bl1
— LIBERTA DEPRE (@liberta___depre) October 21, 2023
Vinícius Júnior, appreciative of Sevilla's rapid response, commended the club for its actions. The young forward took to social media to express his gratitude and highlight another disturbing incident involving a child racially abusing him during the same game. This highlights the pressing need for education to eradicate racism from the sport.
The incident at Sevilla adds to a series of racially charged events that Vinícius has endured, totaling 19 incidents. LaLiga documented and reported eight such occurrences during the 2022-23 season, but local prosecutors have not consistently pressed charges, emphasizing the necessity for a stronger stance against racism in football.
While Vinícius called for legislative changes to criminalize such acts, La Liga also voiced its strong condemnation of racism, pledging to continue working diligently to eradicate such behavior from the sport.
In light of this incident, it is imperative that all stakeholders, from clubs to governing bodies, unite to eradicate racism from the beautiful game. Sevilla FC's rapid response sets a commendable example, but the fight against racism in football is a collective effort that requires continued vigilance and action.
