Spanish police have arrested four men suspected of inciting an online hate campaign against Vinicius Jr., the Real Madrid star, prior to the Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid on September 29. The campaign, which circulated on social media, encouraged Atletico fans to arrive at the Metropolitano Stadium and direct “degrading and discriminatory insults with racist connotations” towards the Brazilian forward.
Police reported that participants were urged to wear masks to avoid identification. The investigation, which began earlier this month after three complaints from La Liga, led to the arrests on October 14 and 15. Authorities have not ruled out further arrests as the investigation is still ongoing.
Vinicius has been a target of racist abuse from opposition fans at various La Liga matches since joining Real Madrid in 2018. In a particularly disturbing incident in January 2023, an effigy of Vinicius was found hanging from a bridge near Real Madrid’s training ground, accompanied by a banner reading: “Madrid hates Real.” Four Atletico Madrid fans were charged over this incident, with prosecutors seeking four-year prison sentences.
The recent derby was also marred by violence, as the match was suspended for 15 minutes due to Atletico fans throwing objects onto the pitch, including lighters. This behavior resulted in a fine and a partial stadium closure for Atletico. The match ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw.