Racism in Spanish Football!
By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
According to Vinicius Jr, a Brazilian forward, who is black and plays for Real Madrid, Spanish football is racist.
In a Spanish league match between Sevilla and Real Madrid on 21 October 2023, a fan was ejected from the stadium for alleged “xenophobic and racist behaviour” and a complaint filed with the Police. The behaviour concerned was not specified.
Although Vinicius was not named as the target of this abuse, he claimed on social media that he was, in fact, the target.
He has regularly been the target of racist abuse by rival fans and remarked that this was “another sad episode for Spanish football.”
After the match, Sevilla commented that “it condemns any xenophobic and racist behaviour.”
And added that it is ready “to work with authorities to eradicate these attitudes.”
Praising Sevilla’s quick response, Vinicius Jr stated that much more needed to be done by the Spanish authorities.
And added:
“I hope the Spanish authorities do their part and change the legislation once and for all…… Sorry to sound repetitive but it’s episode number 19. And counting.”
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘
