I am not your friend: Tebas, Vinicius Jnr Clash over racism claims

The Brazil international was targeted by chants from sections of the crowd at the Mestalla stadium during Real Madrid’s 1-0 loss to Valencia.

He was later sent off after an altercation with Valencia players and took to twitter to call out the Federation.

It wasn’t the first time, nor the second, nor the third. Racism is normal in La Liga. In football they thinks it’s normal, the federation does too – and the opponent encourages it. I’m so sad. The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano and Messi today belongs to racism.

A beautiful nation, which welcomed me and which I love, but which agreed to export the image of a racist country to the world. I’m sorry for the Spaniards who don’t agree, but today, in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists. And unfortunately, for something that happens each week, I have no defence. I let it happen. But I am strong and I will go to the end against racists. Even if it is far from here.

Vini Jnr 

However, la liga President Javier Tebas replied Vini via twitter.

Since those who should, did not explain what @la liga is and what it can do in cases of racism, we have tried to explain it to you, but you have not shown up for either of the two agreed dates that you requested yourself. 

Before criticizing and insulting @la liga, you need to properly inform yourself @Vinijr. Do not let yourself be manipulated and make sure you fully understand everyone’s competencies and the work we have been doing together.

Javier Tebas Medrano, la liga President 

Mr. Tebas also retweeted the Federation’s Statement on the game in Mestalla.

In light of the incidents that occurred during the Valencia CF – Real Madrid CF match at the Estadio de Mestalla, LaLiga have requested all available images in order to investigate what took place. Once the investigation has been completed, if any hate crime is identified, LaLiga will take the appropriate legal action.

LaLiga will also investigate footage of racist insults allegedly directed at Vinicius Jr. from outside the Estadio de Mestalla.

LaLiga has been proactive in the face of all racist incidents against Real Madrid CF player Vinicius Jr. Accordingly, LaLiga has filed reports on nine occasions in the last two seasons with the RFEF Competition Committee, the State Commission against Violence, Racism, Xenophobia and Intolerance in Sport, the Hate Prosecutor’s Office, and the Courts regarding the following incidents:

FC Barcelona – Real Madrid CF: October 24, 2021.
​RCD Mallorca – Real Madrid CF: March 14, 2022.
Atlético de Madrid – Real Madrid: September 18 2022.
Real Valladolid – Real Madrid CF: December 30, 2022.
The “Banner in Valdebebas” incident prior to the Real Madrid CF – Atlético de Madrid Copa del Rey match: January 26, 2023.
​RCD Mallorca – Real Madrid: February 5, 2023.
​CA Osasuna – Real Madrid CF: February 18, 2023.
​Real Betis – Real Madrid: March 5, 2023.
​FC Barcelona – Real Madrid: March 19, 2023.

We remind you that, in order to speed up the identification of any person or group of people who engage in racist behaviour inside or outside any stadium, LaLiga has set up an email address [email protected] so that fans can contact LaLiga and provide the necessary information to help file the relevant reports.

LaLiga has been fighting against this kind of behaviour for years, as well as promoting the positive values of sport, not only on the field of play, but also off it.

la liga 

Not taking any of it, the Brazilian hit back at Tebas.

Once again, instead of criticizing racists, the President of la liga appears on social media to attack me.

As much as you talk and pretend not to read, the image of your championship is shaking. See the responses to your posts and have a rethink.

Excluding yourself only makes you equal to racists. I’m not your friend to talk about racism. I want actions and punishments. Hashtag doesn’t move me.

Vini Jnr 

Earlier, Real Madrid boss was quick to back his ‘star boy.’

Today has been a sad day at Mestalla, where a group of fans have shown their worst version. It is time to stop talking and act forcefully. Racism cannot have a place in football or in society. NO TO RACISM ANYWHERE.

Carlo Ancelotti 

Vini Jnr also had the backing of his boyhood club:

Unbelievable that this still happens, Vini. Keep dancing for them and count on the Nation always by your side. We’re together! ❤🖤

This can’t keep happening. We are always with you, Vini! ❤️🖤

Flamengo