Real Madrid winger Vinicius Jr will keep speaking out against racism in world football after receiving the Socrates Award on Monday at the Ballon d’Or ceremony for his contribution off the field.
Vinicius, who has been racially abused regularly in La Liga games for the last two seasons, was recognised for starting a foundation that is building schools in impoverished areas and investing in education in Brazil.
“I will remain strong in the fight against racism,” said the Brazilian, who received the award from the Prince of Monaco. “It is a very sad thing to talk about racism nowadays, but we have to continue in the fight so that people suffer less.
“Very happy to receive this award and to help many children in Brazil. I had little chance of getting where I have coming from where I came so it is a pleasure for me to help as many kids as I can.”
The 23-year-old was the only Brazilian in the top 10 of the ranking for this year’s Ballon d’Or after scoring 23 goals in all competitions for Real last season.
The forward also paid an emotional tribute to Pele.
“Pele is god for me and if I am here today, it is thanks to him. He put Brazil on a different level and people respect Brazilian players thanks to the great legacy he left,” Vinicius said.
Reuters
