Press Conference Report: FIFA Chairman Condemns Treatment of Vinícius Júnior
In a rare move that underscores the seriousness of the situation, FIFA chairman Gianni Infantino has publicly condemned the attitude of fans towards Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior, following yet another night of controversy in Spanish football.
Speaking at a hastily arranged press conference at FIFA headquarters in Zurich, Infantino did not hold back in his criticism.
> “What we saw yesterday is unacceptable. Football is passion, but it must also be respect. No player — not Vinícius, not anyone — should be subjected to hostility that crosses the line. We cannot tolerate this any longer.”
The FIFA chief went on to emphasize that repeated incidents involving Vinícius Júnior are damaging not only to LaLiga’s reputation but to football’s image globally. He called on both Spanish football authorities and clubs to implement stronger measures against discriminatory or hostile fan behavior.
When pressed by reporters on whether FIFA might intervene directly, Infantino left the door open:
> “We have mechanisms, and we are prepared to act if necessary. Protecting players is non-negotiable. It is not only about Vinícius Júnior — this is about setting the standard for football worldwide.”
The statement immediately sent ripples across the football world. Spanish media outlets described Infantino’s intervention as “unprecedented,” while several Brazilian journalists praised the FIFA chairman for “finally giving Vinícius the institutional backing he deserves.”
For Vinícius himself, who has long spoken out about the abuse he faces, this could mark a turning point. Sources close to the player suggest he feels “heard at the highest level” for the first time.
Real Madrid have yet to issue an official response to Infantino’s comments, but insiders at the Santiago Bernabéu believe the club welcomes FIFA’s stance. “Enough is enough,” one source said. “The treatment of Vinícius has gone too far, and change must come.”
With FIFA now openly involved, the pressure is mounting on LaLiga and Spanish authorities to ensure that the next time Vinícius Júnior steps onto the pitch, the focus will be on his football — not the behavior of the stands.