Disgusted by Racism, Brazilian Hometown Rallies to Defend Soccer's Vincius

May 27, 2023 9:02 PM
Associated Press

The chants of "monkey!" at the Spanish soccer stadium echoed across the Atlantic, reaching people on the outskirts of Rio de Janeiro.

That's where Vinícius Júnior, who is Black, grew up and launched his soccer career. Now, despite his global fame and millions, he was again the target of crude European racism.

His city in multiracial Brazil was sickened and has rallied to his defense.

Racism in the Spanish league has intensified this season, especially after Vinícius started celebrating goals by dancing. On at least nine occasions, people have made monkey sounds at Vinícius, chanted the slur "monkey!" and other racist slurs. Vinícius has repeatedly demanded action from Spanish soccer authorities.

Vinícius' 2017 move to Real Madrid was the culmination of years of effort. One of the most popular clubs in global soccer paid about $50 million — at the time the most ever for a Brazilian teenager — even before his professional debut with Rio-based Flamengo. Relentless racism wasn't part of Vinícius' dream when he was growing up in Sao Goncalo.

More:
https://www.voanews.com/a/disgusted-by-racism-brazilian-hometown-rallies-to-defend-soccer-s-vin%C3%ADcius/7112359.html











Looks as though he has a great time playing his sport regardless of the A$$####$. Good for him.