Valladolid, Spain – May 21, 2025: In a landmark stadium racism ruling, five Real Valladolid fans were found guilty of hate crimes against Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. The verdict comes after racist chants hurled at Vinicius during a La Liga match in December 2022.
The Provincial Court of Valladolid handed the offenders suspended prison sentences of one year and fines ranging from €1,080 to €1,620. They also face a three-year ban from attending football matches, provided they commit no further offences.
The abuse occurred at the Jose Zorrilla Stadium during Real Madrid’s 2-0 victory. Vinicius Jr. was targeted with racist insults as he walked past fans after being substituted. This marks the first time a Spanish court has classified such abuse in a football stadium as a hate crime.
La Liga, which filed the initial complaint and led prosecution efforts, called the decision a major step forward. “This judicial decision is an unprecedented milestone in the fight against racism in sport in Spain,” the league said. “It sends a clear message that intolerance has no place in football.”
Vinicius Jr., Real Madrid, and the Public Prosecutor’s Office joined the case after the complaint was filed. This ruling builds on earlier cases where fans received suspended sentences for abusing Vinicius, including incidents involving Valencia and Mallorca supporters.
Spanish law rarely enforces jail time for nonviolent offenses under two years without prior convictions. Still, this ruling sets an important legal precedent.
The decision is seen as crucial in combating racism in sports and protecting players from discriminatory abuse.
This stadium racism ruling sends a strong message across Spanish football and beyond.
