The Assembly of Rio de Janeiro approved on Tuesday a State Policy called Vin Jr.Anti-Racism in Stadiums and Sports Halls. The policy sets clear consequences for racist acts during competitions, including the possibility of stopping matches or even closing venues if such incidents occur. The decision follows recent incidents where a Real Madrid player faced racist insults during La Liga matches, underscoring the urgency of stronger measures in Brazilian sports venues.
The legislation states that whenever a racist complaint or demonstration is identified, the match can be paused if the organizer, or the event delegate, deems it necessary and as long as racist conduct persists. The protocol is part of the Anti-Racism Protocol, which empowers any citizen present in the stadium to report discriminatory behavior to authorities. Reports can be filed with the event organizers and with the Anti-Discrimination Warning Commission and the Racial Crime and Intolerance Police Station, known as Decradi, according to O Globo’s coverage of the session.
The norm now awaits formal proclamation by the governor of Rio de Janeiro, Cláudio Castro, within fifteen days. Assistant Professor Josemar, who drafted the bill, highlighted that this is the first legislative chamber in the country to pass a measure specifically aimed at fighting racism in stadium environments. The move signals a decisive step toward creating safer, more inclusive settings for sports in the state and sets a clear precedent for other regions to follow, reinforcing the expectation that public authorities will respond promptly to discriminatory acts in athletic venues.
Officials stressed that the legislation is about protecting fans, players, and staff, and about sending a strong message that racism has no place in Brazilian sports. The declaration from lawmakers described the policy as a reclaiming of dignity for participants and spectators alike, emphasizing the necessity of rapid response and accountability whenever racist language or behavior surfaces inside stadiums or within related facilities.
In a separate recognition of sporting achievement and service, the Assembly approved the presentation of the Tiradentes medal, the chamber’s highest honor, to a player from the Brazilian national team. The award may serve to spotlight the value of integrity and sportsmanship in tandem with zero tolerance for racism, illustrating how national pride and inclusive values can be linked to professional football and broader sports culture. [Source: O Globo]