In a landmark decision for Spanish football, the Provincial Court of Valladolid has issued the first-ever criminal conviction for racist insults in a LaLiga stadium, targeting five individuals who directed racist abuse at Vinícius Jr. during a match between Real Valladolid and Real Madrid on December 30, 2022, at Estadio José Zorrilla.

Sentenced for Hate Crimes

The five individuals were found guilty of committing hate crimes and sentenced to:

• One year in prison
• Four-year ban from working in education, sports, or youth services
• Fines ranging from €1,080 to €1,620
• Three-year stadium ban across official competitions

The court allowed for the suspension of prison sentences, provided the defendants—who issued a written apology to Vinícius Jr.—do not attend football stadiums for the duration of the ban.

A Turning Point in the Fight Against Racism

This ruling represents a crucial step in tackling racism in Spanish football, especially after repeated incidents involving Vinícius Jr., who has faced racial abuse at Mestalla, Son Moix, Vallecas, and even in online forums.

The Real Madrid forward has become a central figure in this fight, with his club consistently taking legal action alongside him in each case.

Real Madrid’s Official Statement

"This criminal conviction joins several others already issued in recent months for the racist abuse received by Real Madrid players in stadiums such as Mestalla (Valencia), Son Moix (Palma), and Vallecas (Madrid), as well as in online forums.

On this occasion, the court’s recognition of these acts as hate crimes marks a significant acknowledgment of the seriousness and offensiveness of such behavior.

Real Madrid, which has joined its player in acting as private prosecutor in this and several other similar cases, will continue to fight for the values of our club and to eradicate racism from football and sport."

This historic verdict not only delivers long-overdue justice for Vinícius Jr., but also sets a precedent in Spanish and European football—one that acknowledges racism not just as misconduct, but as a criminal offense.