Justice served as Real Sociedad fans fined and banned for racism against Vinicius | OneFootball

The two Real Sociedad fans who made racist gestures toward Real Madrid’s Vinucius Jr. during the first leg of the Copa del Rey semifinal will face severe consequences, according to a report from Mundo Deportivo.

The outlet mentions that the Anti-Violence Commission has now confirmed the punishment, aiming to send a strong message against racism in football.

During the match at Real Sociedad’s Reale Arena, two individuals were caught on camera imitating monkey gestures directed at Vinicius.

The incident occurred just before half-time when the Brazilian winger was already being jeered and insulted by sections of the home crowd. Following a foul near the left wing, the cameras captured the two fans making the offensive gestures.

Punishment sanctioned

Real Sociedad, along with the Ertzaintza (Basque police), swiftly launched an investigation to identify those responsible.

Their findings were handed over to the Anti-Violence Commission, which has now delivered its verdict. The two fans will be fined €4,000 each and banned from attending any sports events for a year.

The decision was announced following a meeting at the headquarters of the Higher Sports Council, where the Anti-Violence Commission reiterated its firm stance against racism.

In its official statement, the Commission confirmed that the individuals involved in the 46th minute of the match “shouted and made xenophobic and racist gestures” toward Vinicius, leading to the proposed sanctions.

Furthermore, it also stated that there would be “proposed fines of 4,000 euros and a ban from access to sports venues for a period of 12 months for two individuals who, in the 46th minute of the match, shouted and made xenophobic and racist gestures.”

This ruling reinforces the growing commitment to tackling racism in football. While the fine and stadium ban serve as a warning, many will be watching to see if similar incidents in the future receive even harsher penalties.

The hope remains that such actions will deter discriminatory behaviour and help create a more respectful environment in the sport.