New controversy for Real Madrid and its flagship player, Vinícius Júnior. During a conference in Argentina, La Liga president Javier Tebas accused the Brazilian international of audiovisual piracy. The striker, currently injured, reportedly watched the Champions League match between Liverpool and Real Madrid on TNT Sports Brazil, broadcast legally in Spain only via Movistar Television. According to Tebas, “to access this content via TNT Sports in Spain it is necessary to use a VPN or satellite antenna, which constitutes an offense.”
La Liga even sent an official letter to Real Madrid, warning against such behavior. These accusations come as the fight against piracy is a hot topic, with a 36.5% increase in piracy of sporting events in Europe between 2021 and 2023.
The Vinícius clan fights back
Faced with these accusations, Vinícius’ entourage considers the accusations unfounded, according to the media Relevo. The player was not present at Anfield during his teammates’ 0-2 defeat due to injury, but his camp believes Tebas’ claims lack merit.
This case once again highlights the growing problem of piracy in Spain, where 59% of residents consume illegal content at least once a month, according to a La Liga press release.
