Ancelotti calls for ‘zero tolerance’ against racist acts in the Spanish Championship – 03/16/2024 – Sport

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti called for a zero tolerance policy against the recurring “problem of racism” in LaLiga (Spanish Championship), following new incidents targeting striker Vinicius Junior.

On Thursday (14), Vinicius asked European governing body UEFA to take action against alleged racist chants directed at him by Atlético de Madrid and Barcelona fans.

Real Madrid has also filed a complaint with the state prosecutor’s office for hate crimes and discrimination, the LaLiga club said on Friday (15).

The Brazil international has been the target of racist abuse on several occasions while playing in Spain, which has led to a series of local and international campaigns, including the creation of a special FIFA committee against racism.

“The problem is there, I believe it is. I’m not going to change my opinion” on racism in LaLiga, Ancelotti told reporters on Friday.

Vinicius was also a victim of racial abuse last year while playing against Valencia. Several people were arrested following this incident, and Valencia banned four fans.

“I think Valencia responded very well after their episode (with racism). Now it is the others who have to act. When we talk about zero tolerance, it is for us and for everyone,” said Ancelotti.

“I think it is necessary to act and eradicate these problems. These are very ugly things that affect everyone in our society. Criminals (who perpetuate racism) shouldn’t be on the streets, they should be somewhere else.”

Brazil will play a friendly match against Spain at the Bernabéu on March 26 as part of a campaign against racism in support of the Real Madrid striker.