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Vini's Netflix documentary has stirred up controversy over a footage involving a LaLiga club.
LaLiga club Valencia is reportedly considering legal proceedings against Netflix following the release of the documentary Baila, Vini, which features Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior.
The club alleges that the film misrepresents its fanbase by portraying them as racist during a match held at Mestalla Stadium on May 21, 2023.
Baila, Vini stirs controversy
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The documentary, which premiered on Netflix today, chronicles Vinícius Júnior's career and his encounters with racism in football.
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Taking to his official Instagram page, Vini said:
“A 24 year old having a documentary sounds weird, right? My career is far from over, a biography now wouldn't make sense. But I reflected and saw that I already had something to say, there was already a story to tell. May it inspire.
“Smile is my identity Today, I jokingly recount the childhood woes. That was a tough one though. Tears well up the eyes just thinking what my life would be like without football.
“Thank you to everyone who allowed me to experience it all.”
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The documentary name which translates to 'Dance, Vini' from Spanish to English, will give viewers a closer look at one of the greatest Brazilian footballers in recent history.
However, a contentious segment includes footage from the 2023 match between Valencia and Real Madrid, where Vinícius was sent off after an altercation with Valencia's Hugo Duro.
In the film, subtitles suggest that Valencia fans chanted "¡Mono, mono!" ("Monkey, monkey!") at Vinícius. However, Valencia CF contends that the actual chant was "¡Tonto, tonto!" ("Idiot, idiot!"), a claim supported by subsequent investigations.
The club argues that the documentary unfairly generalises the actions of a few individuals to the entire fanbase
Legal considerations and Valencia’s response
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Valencia CF has acknowledged that three fans were identified and convicted for racist gestures during the aforementioned match, receiving eight-month prison sentences and two-year stadium bans.
Despite this, the club maintains that these individuals do not represent the broader supporter community.
In light of the documentary's portrayal, Valencia's legal team is assessing potential actions against Netflix for defamation and misrepresentation, per Diario AS.
The club had previously denied Netflix access to Mestalla Stadium for filming, citing concerns over narrative control and potential reputational harm.
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