Courtesy: Google
The Spanish court has convicted four individuals of hate crimes and issuing threats against Real Madrid star Vinicius, stemming from a notorious incident ahead of the 2023 Madrid derby. The perpetrators who hung black figure having Vinicius name over it are reportedly affiliated with Frente Atletico, an ultra-group linked to Atletico Madrid. Before a Copa del Rey clash between Real and Atletico in January 2023, they were involved in hanging a banner reading “Madrid hates Real” alongside an inflatable black effigy wearing a replica of Vinicius’ No. 20 jersey from a bridge.
One of the defendants, who shared images of the act online, received a 15-month prison sentence for a hate crime and an additional seven months for making threats. The remaining three defendants were sentenced to seven months in prison for hate crimes and another seven months for threats. To have their prison sentences suspended, all four are required to complete a training program focused on equal treatment and non-discrimination.
Punishments are not limited to jail sentences, but also fines and disqualification
According to La Liga's statement, the defendant who was involved in uploading the video online was specifically barred from working in education, sports, or youth-related recreational activities for four years and three months. The other three defendants received similar disqualifications lasting three years and seven months.
In terms of financial penalties, the first defendant was fined €1,084, the remaining three were fined €720. Additional sanctions included a restraining order requiring all four individuals to remain at least 1,000 meters away from Vinicius Junior, his residence, and his workplace. They were also banned from entering football stadiums during La Liga or RFEF matches.
Besides penalties, these fans were also barred from engaging in any form of communication with Vinícius Junior for four years following the completion of their prison sentences. As part of the legal proceedings, all defendants signed a letter of apology addressed to Vinícius, Real Madrid, LaLiga, and the Spanish Football Federation, which contributed to a reduction in their sentences as reparation for the harm caused.
