The club issued a statement to the public, making clear its stance: racism and abusive behavior have no place in the sport, and such acts will be met with the strongest possible responses. The message emphasized a zero-tolerance policy and a commitment to protecting all fans who participate in matches with respect and fair play, aiming to restore trust among supporters and the broader football community.
The statement from Valencia CF clarified that a player, Vinícius Jr., faced racist taunts during a recent game. In response, the club announced decisive actions including a lifelong ban for any fan found to have used racist slurs or gestures toward the player, underscoring their determination to identify those responsible as quickly as possible and to ensure accountability across all levels of attendance and participation in stadium events.
OFFICIAL RELEASE | Valencia CF will ban fans from the stadium for life who make racist gestures towards Vinícius Jr.
The club reaffirmed its strong condemnation of the incident, stating that such conduct is incompatible with the values of Valencia CF and its community of supporters. The organization pledged to uphold dignity, sportsmanship, and respect, both on and off the pitch, and to take comprehensive measures to deter any repetition in the future.
–Valencia CF
“Valencia CF reaffirms its unwavering commitment to combating racism and all forms of violence in football. It announced that authorities have identified a fan who directed racist gestures toward Vinícius Jr during the match against Real Madrid on matchday 35 at the Camp de Mestalla and that the club is coordinating with law enforcement to confirm the identities of additional individuals involved.”
From the outset, all available recordings are being thoroughly reviewed. The club is moving swiftly to clarify what happened and to take decisive action where necessary, ensuring transparency and accountability in the process. This approach reflects a broader strategy to safeguard players, fans, and staff from harassment and discrimination in stadiums across the league and beyond.
Valencia CF has already opened a disciplinary file and will apply maximum sanctions to those implicated. The club is working in concert with police and relevant authorities to determine the facts and implement appropriate penalties, including removal of offenders from the venue for life when warranted. This hard stance is part of a broader effort to foster an environment where everyone can enjoy the game without fear or intimidation.
In reiterating its stance, the club stressed that racism has no place in football or society and does not reflect the values cherished by Valencia CF and its supporters. The message conveyed a clear pledge to act with the same resolve that led to the exemplary lifetime ban of a fan in 2019, who exhibited fascist gestures and salutes toward Arsenal supporters during a Europa League match, setting a precedent for swift, uncompromising action against hate and bigotry in sport.
This episode serves as a reminder that sports organizations must monitor, report, and respond to discriminatory behavior with transparency and accountability. The club’s commitment to safeguarding integrity and inclusivity demonstrates leadership in the ongoing fight against racism in football, reinforcing the idea that the stadium is a space for competition, camaraderie, and shared passion rather than exclusion or intimidation.
In summary, Valencia CF has taken a firm, public stand against racism, outlining immediate investigative steps, confirmed punishments, and a cooperative approach with law enforcement. The aim is to send a powerful message to fans, players, and communities across the country that discriminatory conduct will not be tolerated and that responsible stewardship of the sport remains the highest priority.