Filipe Luís issues statement, addresses Vini Jr racism case again | OneFootball

“After yesterday's match against Lanús, during the press conference organized by Conmebol, minutes after the end of the game, I was questioned by an Argentine reporter. He began his reasoning by citing another case of racism suffered by Vinícius Júnior, when he asked me how Flamengo was received the last few times it was in the country. Throughout the response, I tried to address my personal experiences in Argentina. At no time did I intend to relativize or minimize any racist attitude. I recognize that my statement, given the extreme sensitivity of the topic, may have opened the door to different interpretations. Therefore, I consider it essential to publicly reinforce my position, which has always been non-negotiable: racism is a crime in Brazil and should be treated with the same rigor in all countries. It is an unacceptable conduct that must be combated and punished firmly. Football, as a space of diversity and integration, cannot tolerate any form of discrimination. I also emphasize that, before the match, in an exclusive interview with the rights holder, I expressed my view on the episode, classifying as cowardly the attitude of the player who covered his mouth to commit racist acts. I would never question the victim's word in a serious case like this. Finally, I reiterate my full support to Vinícius Júnior in yet another unfortunate episode involving racism in sports, something that should no longer occur, but unfortunately still repeats and often goes unpunished.”

— I have always been very well treated, Argentina enchants me. I am very happy here, very well received. I only have good words for Argentina. An isolated case like this does not influence anything about what I think of this country, which is so beautiful -, he said.

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