MADRID (AP) – In a Netflix documentary discussing the insults and racist behavior directed at him two years ago at the Spanish club’s stadium, Vinícius Júnior is not expected to participate as Valencia contemplates legal action over claims they label “false.”
Valencia stated that the recently released documentary inaccurately accused a significant number of its fans of engaging in racist chants against the Real Madrid forward during a league match in 2023. The club has requested immediate amendments from the documentary’s production team.
A representative for Vinícius stated on Tuesday that the request was directed at Netflix and the documentary creators, clarifying that the players were not involved.
Netflix has not responded promptly to requests for comments.
The documentary features social media footage depicting what seems to be a large crowd at Mestalla Stadium chanting towards Vinícius. The video includes subtitles in Spanish that translate to “that,” referring to monkeys. However, Valencia contends that the fans were actually chanting “tonto,” which translates to “fool.”
“Due to the deceit and inaccuracies regarding Valencia fans, the club has formally requested an immediate written correction from the production company of a documentary concerning an event at Mestalla that does not reflect reality. The truth and respect for the fans must prevail. Valencia reserves the right to pursue legal action.”
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti immediately condemned Vinícius’ fans for racially humiliating Valencia supporters but later apologized upon realizing that it wasn’t the entire stadium participating in the chants.
There were fans who racially insulted Vinícius during that match. Three of them have been convicted and are serving an eight-month prison sentence related to racism in professional Spanish football.
During their trial, experts indicated that, according to Spanish media, the subtitle “Monkey” had been edited and did not reflect reality.
Vinícius, still facing racist insults, was moved to tears during his 2023 match against Valencia. He was verbally abused and confronted Valencia fans who made monkey gestures from the stands behind him.
The Brazilian forward initially hesitated to continue the match but ultimately vowed not to back down in the fight against racism.
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Source: apnews.com