Didier Drogba thanks Vinicius Junior for fight against racism, says ‘you are not alone’ and demands more action

Former Ivory Coast star Didier Drogba has told Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior that he is “not alone” in his fight against racism.

Vinicius has been the subject of a number of racist abuse incidents during his time in Spain, and La Liga is investigating further allegations of racist abuse directed towards him during Saturday's El Clasico.

On Monday evening at the 2023 Ballon d’Or ceremony, Vinicius was awarded the Socrates award for his work off the field.

Speaking at the event, one of the hosts, former Chelsea striker Drogba, said Vinicius was not alone and urged authorities to do more.

“Thank you Vinicius, you are not alone in this fight,” he said. “It’s been going on for too long, way too long.

“I would like to urge football authorities and governments to act. It is time for real action to eradicate racism, not only in stadiums but everywhere in the world. Thank you.”

For his part, Vinicius vowed to carry on fighting.

"I will remain strong in the fight against racism," he said.

"It is a very sad thing to talk about racism nowadays, but we have to continue in the fight so that people suffer less.

"I'm very happy to receive this award and to help many children in Brazil. I had little chance of getting where I have, coming from where I came, so it is a pleasure for me to help as many kids as I can so they can have a chance."

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