Brazil Uses Vinicius Jr's Name For Anti-Rasism Law

Real Madrid player Vinicius Junior. (Photo: Twitter/@realmadrid)

The Rio de Janeiro government has officially passed an anti-racism law (UU) which they call "Vinicius Jr Law". Vinicius' name is used because the Real Madrid player is often a racist target while on the field.

The Brazilian national team striker was last racially abused by fans when Madrid fought Valencia in May.

It was a tenth incident involving the 22-year-old player that LaLiga had reported to prosecutors.

This law includes protocols on how to process acts of racism and carry out mandatory anti-racism campaigns. The law requires sporting events to be stopped or suspended in the event of racist action.

Local media said the law was inspired by the player's response to the incident at the Mestalla stadium, Valencia.

At that time, the match had stalled for a few minutes as the player pointed at the spectators who were racially harassing him.

Vinicius also received awards from the legislative council and the Rio city council. Footprints that were immortalized in the stadium Walk of Fame, alongside great Brazilian players such as Pele, Garrincha, and Ronaldo.

"Sometimes I wonder if I deserve to receive so many awards. I didn't expect to get so many awards and receive all these affections at Maracana, where I attended and played so many Flamengo matches," Vinicius said.

Rio de Janeiro Sports Secretary Rafael Picciani said it was an honor to reward a Brazilian football idol, who was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro.

"Apart from all the achievements in his football career, Vinicius has also become a symbol of the struggle against racism," he said.