Seven Suspects Arrested in Spain for Racially Abusing Real Madrid Player Vinícius Júnior

Madrid, Spain (AP) – Seven people have been arrested in Spain for racially abusing Real Madrid player Vinícius Júnior, police announced Tuesday. Four of the suspects were arrested in Madrid for allegedly hanging an effigy of the player off a highway bridge in January.

The other three were detained in Valencia for alleged abuse against Vinícius during a Spanish league match on Sunday. During the game, Vinícius reported that a fan had insulted him from the stands, prompting the referee to temporarily stop the match.

The arrests come after an outpouring of support for Vinícius following his allegations of abuse. The case has sparked a widespread reaction from sports figures and government officials in Spain and around the world.

Real Madrid released a statement condemning the abuse and expressing their support for Vinícius. The statement read, “Real Madrid condemns any form of racism or discrimination and stands in solidarity with Vinícius Júnior. We will continue to fight against racism and any other form of discrimination.”

The Spanish government has also expressed its support for Vinícius, with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez tweeting, “We will not tolerate racism in any form. We must all work together to eradicate this scourge from our society.”

The seven suspects are currently being held in police custody and are awaiting trial. The outcome of the case is yet to be determined.