LaLiga moves to curb racism after masked hate campaign targets Vinicius Jr

Spanish football officials condemn racist plot and pledge to defend players’ rights and safety in upcoming derby match

LaLiga has called for the immediate arrest of individuals involved in a hate campaign targeting Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. ahead of the upcoming derby against Atletico Madrid.

The campaign, which has gained traction on social media under the hashtag "#MetropolitanoConMascarilla" ('Metropolitano with a mask'), encourages Atletico fans to wear masks at the Metropolitano Stadium on Sunday to racially abuse the Brazilian winger while concealing their identities.

In response, LaLiga issued a statement on Saturday condemning the campaign and stating its intention to take legal action against those responsible. The organisation described the campaign as an incitement to hatred, a criminal offence under Spain’s Penal Code.

“LaLiga wishes to announce that it will proceed to formally report and request the immediate arrest of the instigators behind a hate campaign seeking to promote racist and derogatory acts,” the statement read.

LaLiga further emphasised that these actions, whether direct or indirect, encourage hatred towards the player due to his race. The organisation stated that such behaviour not only tarnishes the image of football and Spain but also threatens the safety and well-being of all fans attending the match.

This is not the first instance of racial abuse directed at Vinicius Jr. Over the past year, several individuals in Spain have been arrested for similar offences against the Real Madrid forward, who is Black. In one incident last year, four Atletico Madrid fans were charged for hanging an effigy of Vinicius from a bridge in Madrid. Additionally, three Valencia supporters were sentenced to eight months in prison in June for hate crimes against the Brazilian player.

Real Madrid has also taken legal measures to combat such incidents. In March, the club filed a complaint with the state prosecutor’s office after a social media video showed alleged racist chanting by Atletico fans ahead of a Champions League match against Inter Milan.

Atletico Madrid has faced sanctions in the past for racist behaviour exhibited by its supporters. In April, the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) ordered the partial closure of the club’s south stand for two matches after Athletic Bilbao player Nico Williams was subjected to racist abuse during a game.

LaLiga’s strong stance and commitment to pursuing legal action against the perpetrators reflect its efforts to eradicate racism from Spanish football and create a safer environment for all players and fans.