In a moment of shame for football fans around the world, a video circulated on social media depicting fans of Atletico Madrid singing chants against Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr that have been perceived as racist. The incident unfolded after the Brazilian was called a “monkey” by Spanish Football Agents’ Association (AEAF) president, Pedro Bravo. 

Bravo, in an appearance on El Chiringuito, had shown his dislike for Vinicius after the latter celebrated his goal against Mallorca with a dance. Los Blancos ended up pocketing the match with a 4-1 scoreline. His exact comment was, “in Spain, you have to respect rivals and stop playing the monkey”.

Also Read| Never stop dancing: Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr hits back at racist comments

Atletico Madrid have now released a statement condemning their fans who were filmed singing allegedly racist chants against the star forward. In their statement, La Rojiblancos said, “Atlético de Madrid roundly condemns the inadmissible chants that a minority of fans made outside the stadium before the derby was held”.

The statement further added, “Racism is one of the biggest scourges in our society and unfortunately the world of football and clubs are not free from its presence. Our club has always been characterized by being an open and inclusive space for fans of different nationalities, cultures, races and social classes and a few cannot tarnish the image of thousands and thousands of athletes who support their team with passion and with respect for the rival.”

Also Read| Real Madrid players celebrate Rodrygo’s goal against Atletico with a dance

Real Madrid’s city rivals further said that they will not allow anyone to “hide behind” their club colours and utter “racist or xenophobic insults”. Atleti also suggested that the club might expel those people they can identify in the video since the club is a family and these individuals “cannot be part of it.”

After his compatriot Rodrygo scored a goal in the match, Vinicius joined the former and they celebrated with a dance in front of the Atletico Madrid fans at the Wanda Metropolitano stadium. Real are currently at the top of La Liga table with six wins from as many matches. Atleti, on the other hand, are languishing at the seventh spot with only three wins.