Three Supporters Imprisoned In Racial Harassment Case To Vinicius Jr

Vinicius Junior was racially abused by Valencia supporters (Instagram/@vinijr).

JAKARTA - Three Valencia football fans were sentenced to prison in a racial abuse case against Vinicius Jr.

The three fans were found guilty of "crime against moral integrity" by "advertising discrimination based on racist motives".

The initial 12-month sentence was reduced to eight months after an agreement was reached at the preliminary investigation stage.

They are also prohibited from entering any football stadium where the La Liga or Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) matches will be held for two years.

The punishment was born from a racist chant aimed at Vinicius in the La Liga match when Real Madrid travel to the Mestalla Stadium, Valencia headquarters, May 21, 2023.

In the aftermath, La Liga, Real Madrid, and RFEF agreed to bring the racist case to court.

"This decision is good news for the fight against racism in Spain. This is a way to correct the despicable mistake suffered by Vinicius Jr. and send a clear message to individuals who watch football by making harassment."

"La Liga will identify them, report them, and there will be criminal consequences. I understand that there may be frustration over the length of time it takes to impose this sentence."

"However, this shows that Spain is a country that guarantees justice integrity. We in La Liga can only respect justice measures."

"Once again, we demand that Spanish law be changed to give power to La Liga that could accelerate the fight against racism," said La Liga president Javier Tebas.

Meanwhile, Real Madrid is relieved that their struggle with La Liga and RFEF resulted in a decision that could be a deterrent effect.

"The three defendants have accepted their criminal responsibility and have announced an apology letter addressed to Vinicius Junior, Real Madrid, and others who feel humiliated and offended by their behavior."

"This is the first sentence for an action like this imposed by a criminal court. Real Madrid, which participates in this prosecution together with Vinicius Junior, will continue to strive to protect the values of our club and eradicate all racist behavior in the world of football and sports," reads Los Blancos' official statement.