Spanish giants, Real Madrid have condemned the hanging of a Vinicius Junior effigy by suspected Atletico Madrid fans ahead of the Copa del Rey’s Madrid.
Sporting Tribune reports that an effigy of Vinicius was hung from a bridge ahead of Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey city rivals Atletico.
Recall that Vinicius also suffered racist abuse during Madrid’s LaLiga tie against Real Valladolid, which led to the player criticizing LaLiga for its soft stance on racism.
In response to the latest act, Real Madrid in an official statement condemned the shameful deed, calling on the perpetrators to be dealt with.
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The statement reads; “Real Madrid CF would like to thank the support and expressions of affection received after the unfortunate and disgusting act of racism, xenophobia, and hatred against our player Vinicius.
“We express our strongest condemnation of events that violate the fundamental rights and dignity of people, and that have nothing to do with the values that football and sport represent.
“These attacks like the ones our player now suffers, or those that any athlete can suffer, cannot have a place in a society like ours.
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“Real Madrid is confident that those who have participated in such a despicable act will be purged.
LaLiga also released a statement condemning the act.
It reads; “La Liga strongly condemns the acts of hate & intimidation against Vinicius. The investigation of the facts will be urged in the search for the conviction of those responsible & we request the most severe criminal sanctions.”
LaLiga’s condemnation was followed by Atletico Madrid in a statement.
It reads, “We have always condemned and we condemn any type of violent expression that alters the healthy rivalry in the city. We are against any type of violence and insults.”
