The government of Rio de Janeiro has introduced a law against racism that has been named after Vinicius Jr, a forward for Real Madrid.
Vinicius Jr has been a victim of racial abuse by fans on multiple occasions, with the incident during the match between Madrid and Valencia in May being the tenth reported to prosecutors by LaLiga that season.
According to reports from local media, the law was motivated by the player’s reaction to the incident at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium. During the game, the player halted the match for a few minutes to identify and point out the individuals who were racially abusing him from the stands.
What is the anti-racism law named after Vinicius Jr?
This law states that if there is any racist behavior during sporting events, the events will be halted or postponed.
The law, known as the ‘Vini Jr law’, was unanimously passed by the Rio government in June. It encompasses guidelines on how to handle racism complaints and also mandates educational campaigns.
“Today is a very special day and I hope my family is very proud,” said Vinicius during a ceremony at the Maracana Stadium, where he made his senior debut for Flamengo in 2017.
“I am very young and I didn’t expect that I would be receiving this tribute.”
Vinicius was also honored by the legislative assembly and city council of Rio, and his footprints were included in the stadium’s Walk of Fame alongside legendary Brazilian players like Pele, Garrincha, and Ronaldo.
“Sometimes I wonder if I deserve so much,” he said. “I didn’t expect so many awards and to receive all this affection at the Maracana, where I attended and played so many Flamengo matches.”
The Secretary for Sports in Rio de Janeiro, Rafael Picciani, expressed his pride in honoring a “Brazilian football legend who was born and raised in Rio de Janeiro”.
“In addition to all his football career achievements, Vinicius has also become a symbol of the fight against racism”.
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