Real Madrid Forward Vinicius Jnr. To Lead Special FIFA Anti-Racism Committee

By: Gyang Dakwo

Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior will lead a special FIFA anti-racism committee made up of players who will suggest stricter punishments for discriminatory behaviour in football.

The Brazil forward was racially abused by fans when Madrid played Valencia in May, the 10th such incident involving the 22-year-old that LaLiga has reported to prosecutors this season.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino confirmed Vinicius’ involvement in the special FIFA anti-racism committee after meeting him and the Brazil national team, who play Guinea in Barcelona on Saturday as part of an anti-racism campaign led by the Brazilian FA (CBF).

“There will be no more football with racism in it. The games should be stopped immediately when it happens. Enough is enough,” Infantino said.

“I asked Vinicius to lead this group of players that will present stricter punishments against racism that will later be implemented by all football authorities around the world.

“We need to hear the players and what they need to work in a safer environment. We are very serious about it.

“We need harder punishments. We can’t tolerate any more racism in football. As president of FIFA, I feel I needed to talk personally with Vinicius about it.”

Infantino further clarified that racism was not just a sporting issue but a society one, and that FIFA would work with individual countries’ authorities should further incidents occur.