Three Valencia fans were recently sentenced to eight months in prison for abusing the frontman at a match on 21 May 2023.

The supporters were found guilty of a “crime against moral integrity” with “aggravating circumstance of discrimination based on racist motives.”

Vinicius Jr said the only way to drive racism out of football altogether may be by stopping matches.

“In the club, we talk about it more often,” said the 24-year-old. “Not just me, but all [the] players said that if that happens, the next time everyone has to leave the field. So that all of those people who insulted us have to pay a much bigger penalty.

“Today I already see and feel the difference in Spain. Maybe [some fans] are still racists but nowadays they are afraid to express themselves in the football field, and in places where there are a lot of cameras.

“And with that we will reduce racism, little by little. Of course, we won’t be able to end it, but I’m already happy that I’m being able to change Spain’s mindset.”