‘I didп’t expect it’ – Viпiciυs receives the most importaпt medal iп Rio de Jaпeiro iп the Maracaпa
The striker, Vinicius Junior, was awarded the prestigious ‘Medalha Tiradentes’ at the iconic Rio de Janeiro stadium.
This medal is granted by the Legislative Assembly of Rio de Janeiro to individuals and entities that have made significant contributions to public causes.
Vinicius Junior received the award in recognition of his work towards promoting an egalitarian society and in response to the racist attacks he suffered in Spain.
The ceremony took place in the Maracanã box, and Vinicius was grateful and emotional during his acceptance speech.
He expressed his hope that his family would be proud of him for everything they have done to support his journey. He also emphasized the significance of the day, stating, “It is a very special day because… I am very young!”
Vinicius reminisced about his professional debut in the iconic Brasília stadium, describing it as a special place for him. As part of the ceremony, he also left his footprints on the Maracanã Walk of Fame.
Simultaneously with Vinicius Junior’s award, a law bearing his name, the ‘Vinicius Junior Law,’ was enacted by the government of the state of Rio de Janeiro.
This new law stipulates that matches will be suspended in the event of racist acts or demonstrations against any individual present.
Additionally, it establishes a range of punitive and educational measures to combat racist behavior in Rio de Janeiro stadiums.