The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has made its mark with a groundbreaking initiative aimed at reconnecting Seleção players with their roots. On Tuesday, before the match against Uruguay, Vinícius Jr learned that his ancestors came from Cameroon, a revelation made possible thanks to a partnership with AfricanAncestry.com and a DNA test.
During the warm-up at the Fonte Nova stadium, CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues and Vinícius Jr’s father attended an emotional ceremony. A certificate formalising the Real Madrid striker’s Cameroonian origins was presented, along with a video recounting the history of his Tikar ancestors, an emblematic tribe in Cameroon.
“Discovering that my roots are in Cameroon is a very special moment for me and my family. It reminds me that, despite the challenges, our origins and our history count for a lot’, said Vinícius Jr. This initiative, called Golden Roots, was designed to fill the void left by the historical erasure of the African origins of many descendants of slaves. Gina Paige, founder of AfricanAncestry.com, emphasised the importance of this initiative. “Vini Jr. traces his roots back to the Tikar tribe in Cameroon. This discovery is a powerful act of resistance in the face of racism and the legacy of slavery.”
Revelation of Vinicius Jr’s origins, more than a gesture
Taking the floor, CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues emphasised the impact of this initiative, far beyond the sporting context. “By celebrating Vini Jr. we are celebrating all Brazilians. This reflects our commitment to an inclusive society and highlights the crucial contribution of Afro-Brazilian culture to our identity’, he said.
The revelation of Vinícius Jr’s origins comes at a time when racism remains a major challenge in Brazilian football and society. By discovering and celebrating his roots, the Real Madrid striker is not content with being an exceptional player. He is becoming a symbol in the fight against discrimination.
“In the last three months, we’ve already managed to put three or four people in prison, forcing them to answer for their actions. We’re moving in the right direction. I play in Spain, where I have suffered a lot and where I still suffer sometimes, although it is less frequent thanks to the efforts of all the clubs and people who are actively fighting racism, like the CBF. I am aware of my role and my importance, but I often repeat that this fight cannot be waged alone. It belongs to everyone, because it is impossible for one person to carry the weight of what generations of black people have endured. I know my strength and the impact of my words. I’m speaking on behalf of those who don’t have the strength, who are afraid or who are going through hardships that are often invisible to others,” said the Brazil and Real Madrid No7.
“So I’m delighted to be able to make my contribution, to fight with conviction alongside the players and the people involved in this fight. All help is precious. Black people have suffered for too long, and the time has come to put an end to these injustices. FIFA, a world-renowned organisation, the CBF and all the players have the capacity to lead this fight.
Together, let us move forward with strength and determination so that, in the near future, the children who grow up in this world can enjoy a better life, free from this suffering,” added Vinicius Jr in statements relayed by Spanish media outlet AS.
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