Three Valencia fans have been convicted to prison on Monday for racist abuse against Real Madrid talisman Vinicius Jr.
The conviction against the fans will be the first major sentence for racism in the world of football in Spain.
La Liga in a press release said: “The three perpetrators were sentenced to 8 months imprisonment, given a 2-year ban from entering a stadium, and ordered to pay the costs of the proceedings.”
LaLiga President Javier Tebas reacting to the verdict described the ruling as great news regarding the fight against racism in Spain.
He described the verdict as justice to Vinicius Jr. and also served as a deterrent to football fans who go to the pitch to hurl abuse at players.
Tebas said LaLiga will ensure strict compliance against racism by ensuring the perpetrators are faced with criminal consequences for their actions.
Vinicius Jr. was subjected to racist chants during a match between both teams at Valencia’s home turf on May 21, 2023, before the victim and his team raised concern about the abusive behavior.
Their concern compelled the Valencia prosecutors to investigate the racist chant before convicting the suspects for their crimes.
