Spain defender Dani Carvajal emphasized on Monday that his country is not racist, as they gear up for a friendly against Brazil aimed at promoting the fight against racism. Real Madrid and Brazil forward Vinicius Junior has been subjected to racial abuse on multiple occasions, prompting widespread condemnation, including an incident in Valencia in May.
Spain organized a friendly against Vinicius’ Brazil at the Santiago Bernabeu on Tuesday, titled “One Skin,” in an effort to combat racism. “I don’t think Spain is a racist country,” stated Carvajal, who is also Vinicius’ teammate at Real Madrid, during a news conference.
“We have a very high level of integration. I come from a humble neighborhood, Leganes, and grew up with boys of all types of nationalities. I have a lot of friends with different skin colors.”
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Carvajal expressed his belief that fans resorting to racist insults are venting their frustrations in an “ugly” manner at athletes.
“Sadly there are people who go to football it seems to let loose all their rage, their anger,” he continued.
“When it seems that it hurts someone, they do it more and it’s a pity. Those type of people should not be allowed into stadiums because it’s the ugliest thing that exists in sport.”
Winger Vinicius, 23, has been subjected to racial abuse at various stadiums across Spain, including a recent incident condemned by the player himself involving Atletico Madrid fans during their Champions League clash against Inter Milan earlier in March.
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti previously remarked in November that Vinicius has become “unfortunately used to” racism in Spain.
Right-back Carvajal is likely to face Vinicius directly if selected to start against Brazil.
“Against a player of that quality it’s hard to have a clear plan because in the end he is capable of overwhelming anyone,” added Carvajal. “We have to try and close him down, not give him space and having help with that will be the key.”
Spain suffered a 1-0 defeat against Colombia in a friendly last Friday as they continue preparations for Euro 2024.
Coach Luis de la Fuente emphasized the significance of the clash against Brazil, despite it being a non-competitive match.
“It’s the 10th match Spain have played against Brazil in the history of Spanish football, so it’s very important,” he said. “When you play a team like Brazil, there’s more focus, tension, people watching.”
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