Player testifies about the case of the dummy hung by Atlético de Madrid fans before the match against Real
(foto: Thomas Coex / AFP)
Brazilian striker Vini Jr. testified this Monday (19/5), via videoconference, about the case of the dummy hung by Atlético de Madrid fans on a bridge near the Real Madrid training center, simulating a hanging.
The hearing will be on June 16. According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, in his testimony, the Brazilian said that he did not know what the act meant and feared for his safety and that of his family. “It was a very sad day for me,” said Vini, stating that the fans acted in this way because of the color of his skin. Vinícius gave his testimony early, because on the day of the hearing, the player will play in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States.
On January 25, 2023, a group of Atlético de Madrid ultras hung a dummy representing Vinícius Júnior from a bridge near Real Madrid’s training center, simulating a hanging.
A banner was hung above the dummy saying “Madrid hates Real”, a phrase commonly used by the club’s most radical supporters.
The incident took place on the eve of the classic between the two teams in the quarterfinals of the Copa del Rey. In response, Real fans applauded the Brazilian in the 20th minute of the game, the number the player was wearing at the time. Vinícius Júnior scored in the match and Real won 3-1.
