Real Valladolid suspend fans amid Vinicius Junior racist abuse investigation
By Tom Gott
Real Valladolid have suspended a number of fans while they continue their investigation into allegations of racist abuse towards Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.
Vinicius has regularly called out La Liga for failing to hand out strict punishments for racism from supporters and recently reported abuse from Mallorca fans, having also done so after recent games with Valladolid, Rayo Vallecano and Atletico Madrid.
A group of Atletico fans even hung an effigy of Vinicius off a bridge before the recent Madrid derby, sparking a huge debate over the protection of players in Spain's top flight.
Valladolid have been investigating Vinicius' claims and AS state that a number of supporters have seen their club memberships temporarily suspended while a formal investigation into their conduct is held.
Both the local police and the country's task force for battling discrimination in sport are also investigating the allegations, which could result in financial sanctions for Valladolid if evidence can be found.
Reports have claimed that Vinicius is growing increasingly concerned by the atmosphere surrounding him this season.
On top of the abuse from supporters, Vinicius has argued that he is not being protected by referees on the pitch as opposition players continue to rack up the fouls against the Brazil international.
“It's a Spanish football problem, and as a part of Spanish football I think it's a problem we have to solve. It feels like he's guilty, but he's the victim of something. I don't understand,” Real coach Carlo Ancelotti said recently.