A man has been sentenced for making racist insults towards Real Madrid’s Vinicius Júnior and Villarreal’s Samuel Chukwueze during La Liga matches in 2023. The incidents took place at Mallorca’s San Moix Stadium, first targeting Vinicius Júnior in February, followed by similar abuse aimed at Chukwueze two weeks later.
Real Madrid pursued legal action following the events, and on Thursday, the club confirmed that the courts had delivered a verdict against the perpetrator.
In a statement, the club expressed satisfaction with the ruling, which marks a significant stance against racism in football.
“Real Madrid CF announces that the Instruction Court No. 3 of Palma de Mallorca has today handed down a sentence to the individual who made racist insults against Vinicius Júnior in the match between Mallorca and Real Madrid on February 5, 2023, at the San Moix stadium,” the statement read.
The man was found guilty of two offences against moral integrity, both aggravated by racist motivations.
The court convicted him for the abuse directed at Vinicius Júnior and a separate incident involving Samu Chukwueze, who was playing for Villarreal at the time.
The man received a 12-month prison sentence, though the sentence was suspended, provided he complies with specific conditions.
In addition to the prison sentence, the court imposed a three-year ban from attending stadiums where matches under the jurisdiction of La Liga and the Spanish Football Federation are held.
The court also mandated that the defendant issue a formal apology to both Vinicius Júnior and Chukwueze, expressing regret for his actions. Furthermore, he is required to participate in a programme promoting equal treatment and non-discrimination.
This is the third criminal conviction in recent months for racist insults aimed at Real Madrid players.
The club has been actively involved in confronting racism, and this verdict represents another legal victory in their campaign against discriminatory behaviour in football.
The incidents surrounding Vinicius Júnior, in particular, have drawn widespread attention.
The Brazilian forward has been the target of numerous racist attacks during his time in La Liga, sparking condemnation from players, officials, and fans.
His club, Real Madrid, has been vocal in supporting its player, taking legal measures to combat racism.
With this latest court ruling, Spanish football authorities and the legal system have once again demonstrated their commitment to tackling racism, sending a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated.
The case also highlights the importance of players and clubs standing united in the fight against discrimination in sport.
