Image: Instagram
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr says he is a "tormentor of racists" after three Valencia fans were sentenced to eight months in jail for racially abusing him during a match.
The fans' racist chants targeted Vinicius during the La Liga game at Mestalla Stadium in Valencia on May 21, 2023.
The fans were found guilty of "crimes against moral integrity" and "aggravating circumstances of racism."
"I am not a victim of racism. I am a tormentor of racists. This first-ever criminal conviction in Spanish history is not mine. It belongs to all black people," Vinicius posted on X.
"Other racists should fear, be ashamed, and hide in the shadows. Otherwise, I will be here to collect. Thanks to La Liga and Real Madrid for supporting this historic ruling."
This is the first time a conviction for racism at a football match in Spain has been handed down, and it was a direct result of complaints filed by La Liga.
An initial 12-month sentence was reduced by one-third following an agreement reached during the preliminary investigation.
The fans were also banned from entering any stadium where La Liga and/or Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) matches are played for a period of three years, later reduced to two.
Brazilian international Vinicius joined La Liga, Real Madrid, and RFEF in bringing the case to court. The defendants read apology letters during the hearing.
La Liga President Javier Tebas said: "This decision is good news for the fight against racism in Spain, as it somehow corrects the shameful wrong done to Vinicius Jr and sends a clear message to those who go to football matches.
"La Liga will identify them, report them, and there will be criminal consequences."
