Washington Post · May 25, 2023
Vinícius Júnior, Real Madrid and soccer’s racism scandal, explained
The soccer world is again grappling with racism in the sport after Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior was targeted by abuse at a recent game.
“It wasn’t the first time, nor the second, nor the third. Racism is normal in La Liga,” wrote the Black Brazilian player, who has faced racism from officials as well as rival fans since arriving in Spain in 2018 — including earlier this year, when an effigy of him was hung from a bridge in Madrid.
The latest scandal has prompted support and backlash against the soccer star, as well as several arrests. Here’s what to know.