La Liga TV commentator claims Vinicius Jr ‘provoked’ fans before racist abuse
A La Liga TV commentator caused fury by suggesting Vinicius Jr provoked Valencia fans before supporters showered him with racist abuse.
The Brazilian was the target of sickening chants when Real Madrid travelled to Valencia on Sunday evening. And one co-commentator said: "We must stand against the racial abuse of Vinicius. But he is not saint. He is provoking fans and that is not right."
Vinicius Jr was sent off when he lashed out at Hugo Duro, who had his hand around his neck. The commentator added: "Vinicius getting racial abuse is bad, but he needs to take a look at his own actions."
READ MORE: Vinicius Jr says 'racism is normal in La Liga' and hints at quitting after abuse
Vinicius Jr said in a statement: '"It wasn't the first time, nor the second, nor the third. Racism is normal in La Liga.
"The competition thinks it's normal, the Federation does too and the opponents encourage it. I'm so sorry. The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano and Messi today belongs to racists.
"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.
What do you think of the comments from the La Liga TV commentators? Let us know in the comments section
"And unfortunately, for everything that happens each week, I have no defence. I agree. But I am strong and I will go to the end against racists. Even if far from here."
According to Spanish radio, two Valencia fans have been formally identified and will appear in front of a court on Monday charged with hate crimes. La Liga have also promised to identify anyone participating in the racist abuse.
In a statement, La Liga said it had been "fighting against this kind of behaviour for years, as well as promoting the positive values of sport" and would take "appropriate legal action" if any hate crime is identified.
Valencia publicly condemned "any type of insult, attack or disqualification in football" and said it had launched a club investigation.
Daily Star Sport have contacted La Liga TV for comment.
READ NEXT:
Vinicius confronts alleged racist fan and is then sent off despite being choked by star
Gareth Bale celebrates first ever hole in one while Real Madrid thrashed by Man City
Pep Guardiola and Man City staff infuriate Real Madrid fans in deleted photo
Source: Read Full Article