Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior has hit out at La Liga president Javier Tebas over a critical statement on social media that appeared to attack the player rather than call out or condemn the racist abuse he received during Sunday’s defeat to Valencia.
Vinicius has already been the victim of racist chanting and abuse on multiple occasions this season and had tried to bring more vitriol from the Mestalla stands to the attention of the referee during the game. With frustrations boiling over, the Brazilian was eventually sent off deep into stoppage time for an altercation with Valencia forward Hugo Duro.
The 22-year-old later took to social media and said, "Racism is normal in La Liga."
He added: "The competition thinks it's normal, the Federation does too and the opponents encourage it. I'm so sorry. The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano [Ronaldo] and [Lionel] Messi today belongs to racists.
"A beautiful nation, which welcomed me and which I love, but which agreed to export the image of a racist country to the world. I'm sorry for the Spaniards who don't agree, but today, in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists. And unfortunately, for everything that happens each week, I have no defence. I agree. But I am strong and I will go to the end against racists. Even if far from here."
Tebas directly responded to the post, claiming that the Real Madrid forward has not cooperated with La Liga when it comes to stamping out racism.
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"We have tried to explain it to you, but you have not shown up for either of the two agreed dates that you requested yourself,” the president said, not actually condemning the abuse.
"Before criticising and insulting La Liga, it is necessary that you inform yourself properly, Vinicius Junior. Do not let yourself be manipulated and make sure you fully understand each other's competencies and the work we have been doing together."
Vinicius responded in kind, calling out Tebas for his approach to the issue.
"Once again, instead of criticising racists, the president of La Liga appears on social media to attack me," the player commented.
"As much as you talk and pretend not to read, the image of your championship is shaken. See the responses to your posts and have a surprise...omitting yourself only makes you equal to racists. I'm not your friend to talk about racism. I want actions and punishments. Hashtags don't move me."
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This article was originally published on 90min as Vinicius Junior hits out at Javier Tebas over response to latest racist abuse.
