Madrid Court Suspends Sentences for Hate Crimes Against Vinícius Jr.

A Madrid court has convicted four individuals of hate crimes against Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior following their display of a racist effigy and banner before a 2023 Copa del Rey match against Atletico Madrid. The defendants, linked to the Atletico ultras group Frente Atletico, received suspended prison sentences ranging from seven to 22 months, contingent on their participation in equal treatment and non-discrimination programs. One defendant, who shared images of the incident online, received the longest sentence and a four-year ban from working in education, sports, or youth recreation. The court also imposed fines, restraining orders preventing the individuals from approaching Vinícius or soccer venues, and bans from attending La Liga and Spain national team matches. The convictions form part of a broader crackdown on racism in Spanish soccer, with the Spanish league acting as a private prosecutor to support these measures. Real Madrid has reiterated its commitment to combating racial abuse and supporting affected players.