The Spanish federation (RFEF) has intervened by sending not one, but no fewer than five VAR referees out. They would have painted an incorrect picture of what happened in the final phase of Valencia – Real Madrid.
Spanish association inexorable: five VAR referees dismissed
One of the VAR referees is Iglesias Villanueva, who was in charge of the VAR last Sunday. He, in collaboration with his colleagues, did not show what actually happened between Vinícius Junior and Valencia player Hugo Duro. Referee Ricardo de Burgos Bengoetxea only saw Vinicius’ aggression and not Duro’s physical actions. As a result, only the Real Madrid player received the red card and Duro was allowed to stay.
Vinícius reacted furiously because he was treated racistly from the stands, but both Real Madrid and the RFEF believe that the situation has been judged indiscriminately. It is therefore over for Villanueva and five other VAR referees: according to Marca, AS and Mundo Deportivo, they have been set aside by the RFEF. What this means for their employment is not known. Villanueva will still support the VAR on Wednesday during Real Betis – Getafe, but purely because he was already appointed.
Rio de Janeiro supports hurt Vinícius and makes unique statement against racism
In his home country, Vinícius Júnior has had support after the racism riot in Valencia. In Rio de Janeiro, the world-famous statue of Christ remained dark. This in solidarity with the star player of Real Madrid.
Vinicius was racially abused in Mestalla last weekend. It was not the first time this season that the attacker has been a victim of racism. It generated a storm of support, while the football world massively condemned the behavior of Valencia fans.
The Christ statue in Rio followed last night. The image remained dark for an hour. Something that moved Vinicius himself. “Let this image of Jesus Christ symbolize our struggle. Above all, I want to continue to inspire and get more attention for our struggle,” Real Marid’s star man said.
The decision not to illuminate the image for an hour came from the manager. This statement was chosen in collaboration with the Brazilian Football Association.
