Real Madrid star threatens to boycott 2030 World Cup

The 2030 edition of the FIFA World Cup is due to be hosted in Spain, Portugal, and Morocco. However, one Real Madrid superstar believes it should be moved if Spain doesn't fix their problems with racism.

Vinicius Jr., the Real Madrid and Brazilian talisman, has publicly stated that a change of venue should be considered if progress is insufficient on the issue.

In an interview with CNN, the Real Madrid star said: "Until 2030, we have a lot of room to evolve. I hope Spain can evolve and understand how serious it is to insult someone because of the colour of their skin."

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"If by 2030 things don't improve, I think we have to move the location because if a player doesn't feel comfortable and safe playing in a country where they can suffer racism, it's a bit difficult."

The comments sparked outrage in the Spanish media, with many believing Vinicius Jr. labelled the whole country racist rather than specific individuals. ESPN reports that former Real Madrid goalkeeper Paco Buyo said, "It hurts me that Vinicius lumps us all together."

Despite that, the Brazilian star did make it clear that he wasn't talking about the whole country and that his comments were aimed at a minority of supporters.

"There are a lot of people in Spain, the majority, that aren't racist. It's a small group that ends up affecting the image of a country that's good to live in. I love playing for Real Madrid. I love Spain, having the best conditions to live here with my family."

"We hope things can evolve more. They've already evolved, but they can evolve a lot more. For 2030, racist incidents and racism can, and should, decrease."

Vinicius Jr has been a spokesperson against racism since joining Real Madrid in 2018 and has been subject to frequent racist abuse.

According to BBC Sport, three Valencia fans were sentenced to eight months in prison in June after racially abusing Vinicius Jr on the 21st of May 2023.

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The supporters were found guilty of a "crime against moral integrity" with "aggravating circumstance of discrimination based on racist motives." It was the first guilty verdict of its kind in the country.

The Brazilian forward broke down crying in a press conference earlier this year when talking about the abuse he has encountered, saying he felt "less and less" like playing football.

The superstar forward has played over 250 times for the most successful team in Europe, winning two Champions Leagues and three La Liga titles.

Vinicius Jr believes the only way the players can drive racism out of football is to walk off the pitch, stopping the match.

In the CNN interview, Vinicius said: "In the club, we talk about it more often. Not just me, but all [the] players said that if that happens the next time, everyone has to leave the field. So that all of those people who insulted us have to pay a much bigger penalty."

"And with that, we will reduce racism, little by little. Of course, we won't be able to end it, but I'm already happy that I'm being able to change Spain's mindset."

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