7 arrested for racial abuse to Vinicius Jr.

Spanish police took action after the latest case of abuse against Vinícius Júnior, arresting seven people accused of racially insulting the Real Madrid player.

Spanish soccer officials also acted, fining Valencia 45,000 euros ($48,500) and closing part of the team’s stadium for the next five games.

Three people were detained in Valencia for alleged abuse against Vinícius in Sunday’s match between Valencia and Madrid. Four were arrested in Madrid for allegedly hanging an effigy of the player off a highway bridge in January.

The arrests came after an outpouring of support for Vinícius after he said he was abused in Valencia. The case prompted widespread reaction from sports figures and government officials in Spain and worldwide.

The section of Mestalla Stadium that will be closed is where the insults against Vinícius came from, behind one of the goals. It’s also where the club’s more hardcore fans usually are located.

NFL

GOODELL CLOSE

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THREE-YEAR EXTENSION >> Commissioner Roger Goodell and the NFL have agreed on the framework of a threeyear contract extension that will keep him in place until 2027, Colts owner Jim Irsay confirmed at the league meetings.

Goodell’s current deal expires in 2024. He has been commissioner of the league since replacing Paul Tagliabue in 2006.

“That’s always good news,” Irsay told reporters in Minnesota, where owners finished their spring meetings. “I think we still have to rubberstamp it so to speak, but it’s virtually done.”

Irsay said he’s under the impression Goodell will retire after the extended contract expires and be involved in the development of a potential successor.

“We’ll look for his contribution every way possible,” Irsay said.