Four fans have been handed jail sentences after being found guilty of committing hate crimes against Brazilian international and Real Madrid forward, Vinicius Jr.

The court ruling, announced this week, comes nearly a year and a half after the quartet hung an inflatable effigy of the player from a bridge near Real Madrid’s training ground, accompanied by a threatening banner reading, “Madrid hates Real”.

The disturbing incident took place in January 2023, just hours before a high-profile Copa del Rey clash between Real Madrid and their city rivals, Atletico Madrid, at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

The act drew widespread condemnation from across the footballing world, including fans, players, governing bodies, and anti-racism organizations, all of whom called for justice and swift action.

Three of the perpetrators received 14-month prison sentences, while the fourth was handed a 22-month term for distributing images of the effigy and banner online.

Despite the seriousness of their actions, the sentences were suspended after the individuals signed a formal letter of apology directed toward Vinicius Jr., Real Madrid, La Liga, and the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF).

Restraining Order

As part of the court ruling, the four fans are now subject to a restraining order preventing them from coming within one kilometer of Vinicius, his residence, or Real Madrid’s training facilities.

Furthermore, they are banned from attending any La Liga matches or Spanish national team games for the duration of their suspended sentences.

These sanctions are designed not only as a form of punishment but also as a deterrent against future acts of hate or intimidation.

According to the club, a total of 14 fans have now been convicted for racist attacks against its players, adding that Vinicius, in particular, has faced repeated abuse from rival fans since his arrival in Spain.

“This criminal conviction comes in addition to the several already handed down in recent months for racist insults received by Real Madrid players at the stadiums in Valladolid, Valencia, Palma de Mallorca and Madrid.
“Real Madrid has joined its players in prosecuting this case, and in many others currently underway, and will continue to work to protect the values of our club and to eradicate any racist behaviour in the world of football and sport.”
Real Madrid

One of the earliest high-profile incidents occurred in September 2022 when Atletico Madrid supporters directed racist chants at him during a La Liga fixture.

That same month, he was targeted again in a match against Real Valladolid. In response, five individuals were later handed suspended prison sentences, making headlines across Europe and further emphasizing the need for structural change.

Vinicius Jr.’s vocal advocacy has helped keep the issue in the spotlight. In December 2022, just one month before the effigy incident, he publicly urged La Liga to implement tougher penalties and to ban individuals found guilty of racist chanting from stadiums.

His demands were echoed by many, including fellow players, anti-racism campaigners, and international media outlets.

The 24-year-old has consistently used his platform to call out discrimination, a move that has earned him both praise and criticism, but one that has undeniably forced a national conversation in Spain.

With over 300 appearances for Real Madrid and numerous accolades to his name, including UEFA Champions League and La Liga titles, Vinicius Jr. Has become not just a footballing icon but a symbol of resilience and resistance in the face of hate.