La Liga Rivals Sue Over Explosive Vinicius Junior Documentary

Spanish La Liga side Valencia has announced they have initiated legal proceedings against Netflix regarding what they consider to be inaccuracies in Vini Jr., a documentary featuring Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior.

The Spanish team alleges the production incorrectly depicts Valencia supporters making racist remarks toward Vinícius Júnior during a 2023 incident. Valencia maintains that Netflix harmed the club's "reputation" by incorporating what they describe as manipulated subtitles over footage of purported racist behavior.

The legal action centers on footage from the documentary that appears to show supporters at Mestalla stadium directing abuse at the Brazilian player during Real Madrid's 1–0 loss to Valencia on May 21, 2023. The segment appears in Vini Jr. with captions indicating the fans are shouting "mono," the Spanish term for monkey.

Valencia maintains the supporters were actually shouting "tonto," the Spanish word for fool.

The organization openly warned they would pursue legal action if Netflix and Conspiração Filmes, the documentary's production house, failed to modify the captions over the social media footage. With no response from Netflix's side, Valencia has now proceeded with litigation.

The La Liga team is pursuing monetary damages, along with amendments to the documentary's subtitles. Valencia also requests publication of any court judgment resulting from the case.

Valencia Supporters Previously Convicted for Racist Conduct

Previously, three Valencia supporters who attended the game featured in the Netflix production were convicted of racist conduct toward Vinícius Júnior. These individuals received eight-month prison terms and two-year stadium prohibitions.

After the verdict, the 25-year-old forward posted a powerful statement on social media addressing the racist treatment he and fellow players have experienced in La Liga.

"Many urged me to overlook it, many others claimed that my struggle was pointless and that I should simply 'play football,'" Vinícius Júnior posted on X.

"However, as I have consistently stated, I am not a victim of racism. I am a punisher of racists. This initial criminal conviction in Spain's history is not for me. It represents all Black individuals.

"Let other racists experience fear, embarrassment and retreat into darkness. If not, I will remain here to ensure their accountability. Thank you to La Liga and Real Madrid for supporting this landmark conviction. More will follow."

The Brazilian player has not yet made any public statements regarding Valencia's legal action.