MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Jude Bellingham spoke Tuesday about the “disgusting” level of racism in Spanish soccer and called for action so that Real Madrid teammate Vinícius Junior isn’t driven out of the sport in the face of persistent abuse.
Brazil winger Vinícius has repeatedly been the target of racial insults from opposition fans and last month said he was losing his desire to carry on playing.
Bellingham said he doubted whether soccer’s authorities would be able to stamp out racism in the sport after a Mallorca supporter was caught on camera over the weekend making monkey gestures following a goal from Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouaméni.
“The people in power need to do more, especially with Vini in the recent weeks — well, years actually,” he said ahead of Madrid’s Champions League quarterfinals second-leg match against Manchester City. “I think the blame gets shifted more onto him because of maybe his playing style and the way he likes to express himself and I don’t think that’s fair.
Molly Sims looks red hot in flirty polka
Biden promises quick provision of additional arms to Ukraine in call with Zelensky
How do private enterprises tackle challenges with innovation?
Peter Andre reveals TWO names are 'in the running' for his newborn daughter as legal deadline looms
Lady Gaga and boyfriend Michael Polansky make a rare appearance as they step out for a low
How a pheromone perfume could make you irresistible to the opposite sex
Alec Marsh and 4 relievers combined for a 6
Santiago Espinal has 3 RBIs, Fernando Cruz pitches out of another jam and Reds beat Phillies 7
Exodus at GB News continues: Pip Tomson becomes third star to quit in just three months
Playoff hopes fading for troubled Crusaders in Super Rugby Pacific