Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior faces racist abuse in Valencia

Spanish prosecutors have launched an investigation into possible “hate crimes” after Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior faced racist abuse during a match against Valencia. The Brazilian forward, who has been targeted by racial abuse in La Liga before, was reportedly called a “monkey” by a fan during the game on Sunday. Real Madrid has criticised Spain’s football federation for not following FIFA protocols and failing to take strict action against racism in the country. As condemnation from the football world came in, including from FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Spain’s government sports council said it would propose sanctions, including one-year stadium bans and €4,000 fines for those found guilty.