Arrests Made in Hate Campaign Against Vinicius Jr.
Spanish police have arrested four individuals identified as Atlético Madrid supporters for their involvement in a hate campaign against Real Madrid striker Vinicius Junior. This campaign, which gained significant traction on social media under the hashtag #metropolitanoconmascarillas, encouraged fans to attend the Madrid derby on September 29 wearing surgical masks to hide their identities while directing racist insults at the Brazilian player. The arrests occurred on October 14 and 15, following a complaint from the Spanish football league regarding incitement to hatred.
The accused, aged between 24 and 26, are believed to be the main instigators of the campaign that amassed 1.7 billion views and over 56,000 interactions on various platforms. Police described the campaign as inciting supporters to attend the stadium and unleash humiliating and discriminatory insults, particularly aimed at Vinicius, who has faced persistent racism since joining La Liga in 2018. This incident is part of a troubling trend in Spanish football, where racism has been prevalent despite ongoing efforts by authorities to combat it.
Ongoing Legal Consequences and Wider Implications
The recent arrests are not isolated incidents. In June 2023, four Atlético ultras were banned from stadiums for two years for hanging a mannequin resembling Vinicius from a bridge, and a supporter from Mallorca was sentenced to one year in prison for racist insults against Vinicius and another player. These actions reflect a growing concern regarding racism in football, prompting legal actions against offenders.
The Madrid derby itself was marred by controversy, with objects thrown onto the pitch, leading to a temporary halt in the match. Following these events, Atlético Madrid faced sanctions, including a partial stadium closure and a fine, although appeals have modified some penalties. The Madrid Provincial Prosecutor's Office has also opened an investigation into the events of the derby, particularly focusing on the actions of fans during the match.
Vinicius Jr. has emerged as a prominent figure in the fight against racism in football, often calling out discriminatory behavior during matches. However, the challenges remain significant as incidents of racism continue to provoke outrage and discussions about the need for more effective measures within the sport.
