Vinícius to head FIFA commission against racism: ‘Stricter penalties’

Brazilian soccer player Vinícius Júnior will be put in charge of a special committee at FIFA that aims to eliminate racism in the sport. President Gianni Infantino said so in Barcelona, where he met Vinícius.

The commission will include players who will propose tougher penalties for discriminatory behavior. “Soccer cannot continue with racism. Matches must be stopped immediately if it happens. Enough is enough,” Infantino said after his a meeting with the international, who plays with Brazil against Guinea in Barcelona on Saturday as part of an anti-racism campaign.

“I have asked Vinícius to lead the group of players who will present tougher penalties against racism that will later be implemented by all soccer authorities around the world. We need to hear from the players what they need to play soccer in a safer environment,” Infantino said.

Real Madrid’s speedy striker was repeatedly the target of racism during matches last season. The 22-year-old player reported ten incidents to La Liga. The last time was after the match against Valencia on May 21. The Brazilian attacker was racially attacked by the Valencia crowd during the game.

“It wasn’t the first time, or the second or the third…. Racism is normal in LaLiga. The competition considers it normal, the federation too, and the opponents encourage it,” was Vinícius’ clear language then on his social media channels.