Four Arrested Over Alleged Racist Campaign Targeting Vinicius Jr

Spanish authorities have arrested four individuals in connection with an alleged online campaign aimed at racially abusing Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. The campaign reportedly encouraged fans to wear black face masks to conceal their identities while engaging in racist behavior towards the Brazilian forward.

Vinicius Jr, 24, has been vocal about the racial abuse he has endured throughout his career, even breaking down emotionally during a press conference earlier this year. He expressed his frustration, admitting that the constant discrimination has made him feel “less and less” inclined to continue playing football.

The four men were taken into custody on 14 and 15 October but were later released as investigations continue. While the Spanish national police have not disclosed their identities, they confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing and could lead to further arrests. The racist campaign, which went viral online, sparked significant concern across Spain, leading to these arrests.

The first action by the police took place on 29 September ahead of the La Liga derby between Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid at the Metropolitano Stadium. The campaign, circulated under the hashtag “Metropolitano with a mask” in English, stirred tensions, although no specific racist incidents occurred during the match itself. However, the game was briefly suspended when objects were thrown onto the pitch.

This isn’t the first time racist abuse has targeted Vinicius Jr. In June, three Valencia fans were sentenced to eight months in prison for their involvement in racist incidents during a match in May 2023. Following these ongoing issues, Vinicius has said that he and his teammates will walk off the pitch if faced with more racism this season, emphasizing that stopping matches may be the only solution to ending racism in football.