Four individuals have received suspended prison sentences from a Madrid court after being convicted of a hate crime involving an effigy of Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. The incident occurred in January 2023, when the group displayed a banner that read “Madrid hates Real” alongside an inflatable effigy wearing the Brazilian’s No. 20 jersey before a Copa del Rey match against Atletico Madrid.
One of the defendants was sentenced to 15 months in prison for the hate crime, with an additional seven months for making threats, particularly after posting images of the incident online. Meanwhile, the other three received sentences of seven months for the hate crimes and threats. Despite these rulings, none of the four will serve time in prison, as they all signed a letter of apology directed at Vinicius, Real Madrid, LaLiga, and the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).
In addition to the suspended prison sentences, the defendant who posted the video received a four-year disqualification from working in education or youth recreational roles, while the others faced disqualifications of three years and seven months. They were also each fined amounts ranging from 720 to 1,084 euros and are under a restraining order from Vinicius, meaning they cannot approach him or stadiums during LaLiga or RFEF matches. Lastly, they will be required to participate in an educational program focusing on equal treatment and non-discrimination as part of the conditions for their sentences to be suspended.
Real Madrid announced that this case marks the 14th criminal conviction related to racist attacks against their players. The club continues its commitment to the fight against racism in football, stressing the importance of maintaining a respectful atmosphere in sports. Vinicius Jr. has been a high-profile victim of racial abuse multiple times in Spain and has vowed to keep fighting against such discrimination, reinforcing his determination despite facing challenges related to his activism.
This legal outcome is part of a broader pattern of recent convictions in Spain, reflecting an intensified commitment to combating racism in football and ensuring that stadiums are safe spaces for all players and fans. The hope is for continued progress towards fostering a sporting culture free from hate.
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