Three supporters sentenced to prison after racially abusing Vinicius Jr.

The Valencia Court handed an eight-month sentence in jail on the three identified fans who threw racial comments at Vinicius at Mestalla on May 21, 2023. For the very first time in modern history, those who criticize a player in a discriminatory way on the field of football face a prison sentence. It happened in Valencia, following the abuses Vinicius received during Real Madrid's match versus Valencia on May 21, 2023.

According to 'Cadena SER', the Valencia Court sentenced three supporters to eight months in prison for racist remarks directed against Vinicius Jr. Furthermore, all three of the defendants have been barred from accessing any football arena in Spain for a period of two years, and they will be required to pay the legal fees. 

According to La Liga, the punishment was originally 12 months in prison but was reduced by one-third "on the grounds of agreement at the initial investigation stage". The punishment imposed on these supporters is significant because it is both harsh and unique in Spanish judicial history for such offenses. This incident, and the accompanying legal action, demonstrate a prominent anti-racism position in Spanish football.

The racial comments hurled at Vinicius in 2023 received international notice. This resulted in overwhelming sympathy towards the Brazilian, who is frequently outspoken in criticizing such behavior and has become a notable campaigner in the battle against racism throughout sports.

“There will be criminal consequences for them” : La Liga President Javier Tebas

La Liga president Javier Tebas expressed delight with the court judgment.  He noted that this verdict marks a huge win in the fight towards racism in Spain. It not only remedies the wrongs committed against Vinicius Jr., but it also delivers a clear and forceful message to anybody who contemplates utilizing football games as a forum for abuse. 

He said, “This ruling is great news regarding the fight against racism in Spain, as it rectifies the wrong suffered by Vinícius Jr and sends a clear message to those people who go to a football stadium to hurl abuse. La Liga will identify them, report them and there will be criminal consequences for them.”