Man arrested in Valencia for racist insults against Vinicius Junior outside Metropolitano

A 27-year-old man was arrested in Valencia for racist insults directed at Vinicius Junior, Spanish media reported on Tuesday. The incident dates back to April 14, just hours before the Champions League quarter-final second leg between Atlético de Madrid and FC Barcelona.

Filmed outside the Metropolitano stadium, the suspect — wearing the red and white shirt of the Colchoneros — was captured hurling terms such as “chimpanzee” and “monkey” at the Real Madrid player. The video quickly spread on social media, particularly in Brazil, triggering an investigation.

The identification and arrest of the individual were made possible through collaboration between the Information Brigades of the National Police in Madrid and Valencia, according to Spanish media Marca citing the Europa Press agency. The man is now facing charges of “incitement to hatred”.

This latest incident is part of a pattern of repeated racist harassment that Vinicius Junior has suffered for several years in Spain. The Brazilian player, currently in the United States to compete in the 2026 World Cup with the Seleção, scored the equalizing goal in Brazil’s opening match against Morocco (1-1).