Real Madrid News
Reactions: Sporting icons lend support for Vinicius Jr after racist abuse from Valencia fans
In a heartening display of solidarity and condemnation against racial discrimination in sports, prominent figures from the world of sports have rallied behind Vinicius Junior.
The Real Madrid star, who recently fell victim to racial abuse during a game against Valencia, has garnered widespread support and encouragement from renowned athletes, including Lewis Hamilton, Ronaldinho, Kyle Walker, and Rio Ferdinand.
Leading the charge of support, Formula One champion Lewis Hamilton, who is known for his unwavering support for social justice and the Black Lives Matter movement. took to social media to express his solidarity with Vinicius Junior. “Standing with you Vinicius,” he posted on Instagram.
📲🤍 Lewis Hamilton on IG. pic.twitter.com/bCxwfa2OuE
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) May 22, 2023
Ronaldinho, one of the greatest footballers of all time, joined the chorus of voices denouncing racial discrimination. “No kind of discrimination should be allowed. I hope that the Viní Jr case helps to ban these voices that cause so much harm to the sport from the stadiums. Being black is a Pride!” he stated.
Ronaldinho’s message to Viní Jr: “No kind of discrimination should be allowed. I hope that the Viní Jr case helps to ban these voices that cause so much harm to the sport from the stadiums. Being black is a Pride!” pic.twitter.com/SpiCjhmBxC
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) May 22, 2023
The Pele Foundation, too, has backed Vinicius. Echoing the passion and love of the late Pele, the organisation urged Vinicius to chin up and never stop smiling in the face of adversity.
🤍 The Pelé foundation’s message to Viní Jr. pic.twitter.com/jBNcfhRnCU
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) May 22, 2023
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand also showed unwavering support for Vinicius. He strongly condemned racists and urged the authorities to do more in order to curb the problem.
🚨 Rio Ferdinand with a message. 👏 pic.twitter.com/qUQeY1wo7s
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) May 21, 2023
Former Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale has also offered support to the Brazilian. He condemned the act and also urged authorities to do more.
Racism has no place in football or society! @LaLiga need to take serious and unequivocal action to stop this from happening. All my support to @vinijr pic.twitter.com/1bsgN7EtTZ
— Gareth Bale (@GarethBale11) May 22, 2023
These are some of many prominent sporting figures who have stood behind Vinicius. Real Madrid, too, have strongly supported the Brazilian and have launched an official complaint against the vile act this morning.
Real Madrid have officially announced that winger Marco Asensio will be leaving the club as a free agent at the end of the season. The Spaniard was between a contract extension and departure for a very long time, and eventually decided it was best for him to leave.
Asensio joined Madrid eight years ago, as a 20-year-old, and was loaned out to Espanyol during his first season in the top flight, where he scored four goals and gave ten assists across 34 appearances.
He has since been a key member of Real Madrid’s team, often dropping in and out of starting lineups, though. During his time at the Santiago Bernabeu, Asensio has won three UEFA Champions Leagues, four FIFA Club World Cups, three La Ligas, and three European Super Cups.
“Real Madrid fans will never forget their path and their exemplary behaviors during all this time. Madrid is, and will always be, his home,” the farewell announcement said.
Now, rumours suggest that Asensio will heading to Paris to join PSG on a Bosman move.
