Vinicius Junior slams Javier Tebas for his reaction to recent racial abuse

Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior has criticized La Liga president Javier Tebas for a statement on social media that seemed to attack the player rather than condemn the racist abuse he received during Sunday's defeat to Valencia.

Vinicius has been a victim of racist chanting and abuse multiple times this season and had attempted to bring more vitriol from the Mestalla stands to the referee's attention during the game. In the heat of the moment, the Brazilian was eventually sent off for an altercation with Valencia forward Hugo Duro.

Later on, the 22-year-old took to social media to voice his concerns about racism in football. "Racism is normal in La Liga," he said. "The competition thinks it's normal, the Federation does too, and the opponents encourage it. I'm so sorry. The championship that once belonged to Ronaldinho, Ronaldo, Cristiano [Ronaldo] and [Lionel] Messi today belongs to racists.

"A beautiful nation, which welcomed me and which I love, but which agreed to export the image of a racist country to the world. I'm sorry for the Spaniards who don't agree, but today, in Brazil, Spain is known as a country of racists. And unfortunately, for everything that happens each week, I have no defense. I agree. But I am strong and I will go to the end against racists. Even if far from here."

Tebas issued his own response to Vinicius' post, claiming that the player has not cooperated with La Liga in eradicating racism. "We have tried to explain it to you, but you have not shown up for either of the two agreed dates that you requested yourself," the president said, without condemning the abuse.

"Before criticizing and insulting La Liga, it is necessary that you inform yourself properly, Vinicius Junior. Do not let yourself be manipulated and make sure you fully understand each other's competencies and the work we have been doing together."

Vinicius hit back at Tebas and criticized the president's approach to the issue. "Once again, instead of criticizing racists, the president of La Liga appears on social media to attack me," the player commented. "As much as you talk and pretend not to read, the image of your championship is shaken. See the responses to your posts and have a surprise...omitting yourself only makes you equal to racists. I'm not your friend to talk about racism. I want actions and punishments. Hashtags don't move me."

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