Valencia have released a statement condemning fans who racially abused Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior.
Vinicius was the victim of racist abuse during Sunday’s clash with Valencia at the Mestalla, and was sent off for reacting to the chanting from fans in attendance.
It’s not the first time that the Brazilian has been subjected to such abuse in La Liga this season, with the 22-year-old being racial abused by Atletico Madrid fans earlier in the campaign too.
In a statement released on their club website, Valencia have come out to condemn those in attendance for Sunday’s game who chanted racist abuse at Vinicius.
“Valencia CF wish to publicly condemn insults and attacks of all kinds in football,” the club said.
“The club have a firm commitment to the values of respect and sportsmanship, and reiterate our position against physical and verbal violence in stadiums. Thus, we are saddened by the events that occurred during the La Liga Matchday 35 match against Real Madrid.
“Although this is an isolated episode, insults to any opposing player have no place in football and do not fit with the values and identity of Valencia CF. The club are investigating what occurred and will take the most severe measures against the perpetrators. Valencia CF also condemn any offence and request the utmost respect for our fans.
“Whilst strongly denouncing these isolated incidents, Valencia CF would like to thank the more than 46,000 fans in attendance for their support for the team.”
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Despite the events of Sunday, 90min understands that Vinicius Junior has no plans to quit Real Madrid in the near future.
Vinicius has, however, openly criticised La Liga’s response to the incident, saying that ‘racism is normal’ in the competition: “The competition thinks it’s normal, the Federation does too and the opponents encourage it. I’m so sorry. The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano [Ronaldo] and [Lionel] Messi today belongs to racists.
“A beautiful nation, which welcomed me and which I love, but which agreed to export the image of a racist country to the world. I’m sorry for the Spaniards who don’t agree, but today, in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists. And unfortunately, for everything that happens each week, I have no defence. I agree. But I am strong and I will go to the end against racists. Even if far from here.”
