Four Arrested In Spain Over Online Racial Abuse Campaign Against Vinicius

October 24, (THEWILL) – Spanish authorities have detained four individuals following an investigation into an orchestrated online racial abuse campaign targeting Real Madrid footballer, Vinicius Jr. The arrests, conducted on October 14 and 15, focused on social media activities encouraging spectators to wear face masks during matches to conceal their identities while directing racial slurs at the Brazilian international player.

The investigation centres on events leading up to the Madrid derby match at Atletico Madrid’s Metropolitano stadium on September 29. Police officials report the social media campaign generated substantial public concern, prompting immediate action from La Liga, which called for arrests prior to the fixture. While the suspects have been released pending further investigation, authorities continue their enquiries with additional arrests possible.

This development follows a significant legal precedent established in June when three Valencia supporters received eight-month prison sentences for racial abuse directed at Vinicius Jr – marking Spain’s first conviction for racist behaviour in football stadiums. The 24-year-old forward had previously criticised La Liga and Spanish football regarding racist incidents, particularly following abuse at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium.

The Madrid derby itself faced disruption due to objects thrown onto the pitch, resulting in disciplinary measures against Atletico Madrid. The club must now operate with partial stadium closure, while potentially facing additional sanctions including a proposed two-week complete stadium closure and €65,000 fine from the Anti-Violence Committee.

In response to these incidents, La Liga has submitted documentation detailing 142 alleged incidents involving Atletico Madrid’s ultra supporters since 2015. Atletico Madrid has implemented internal disciplinary procedures and restricted away match ticket sales to specific supporter groups for five upcoming fixtures across all competitions.