Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior has been appointed to lead a special FIFA anti-racism committee composed of players who will propose stronger penalties for discriminatory behaviour in football.
This decision comes after the 22-year-old Brazilian forward was subjected to racial abuse by fans during a match between Madrid and Valencia in May. This incident marked the tenth case involving Vinicius that LaLiga has reported to prosecutors this season.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced Vinicius’ involvement in the committee following a meeting with the player and the Brazilian national team, who are participating in an anti-racism campaign led by the Brazilian Football Association (CBF).
Infantino expressed his determination to eradicate racism from football, stating, “There will be no more football with racism in it. The games should be stopped immediately when it happens. Enough is enough.”
“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.”