Author – Amrit Santlani
Real Madrid and Brazil full-back Vinicius Junior was the victim of racial abuse during Madrid’s recent 1-0 defeat to Valencia at the Mestalla Stadium on Sunday. Following the incident, which caused quite a stir in the soccer world, La Liga is to demand “more sanctioning powers” from the Spanish authorities, to punish any future incidents related to racism.
The Spanish top flight was heavily criticized for its treatment of Vinicius, who exploded on Instagram, launching a blistering attack on La Liga after his first career red card.
Under current laws, La Liga can only identify and report cases of racism, but cannot impose sanctions. The Spanish top flight, in a statement, added that it feels “tremendous frustration” due to the lack of sanctions imposed on the culprits.
Spanish police said three fans had been arrested for “racist behavior” at the Mestalla, while they had previously detained four people on suspicion of hanging an effigy of the Brazilian striker from a bridge in Madrid before the derby against Atlético.
La Liga is ready to make a formal appeal to the Spanish government to change two laws that would help the league punish teams by closing stadiums, banning fans or even fining clubs if necessary.
According to an AFP report, Vinicius’ red card was rescinded after Real Madrid accepted his complaint regarding the brawl that resulted in the 21-year-old being shown a straight red for hitting Hugo Duro in the face.
The Spanish Football Federation’s Competition Committee also ordered Valencia to close the Mario Kempes Stand for the next five games, and the club was also fined 45,000 euros.