The Authority for the Prevention and Combat of Violence in Sports (APCVD) has sent all available information to the Public Prosecutor’s Office regarding the racist abuse suffered by Brazilian defender Otávio Ataíde, who plays for Famalicão.
APCVD explained that while the case is not directly within its powers—since the insults did not happen during the Sporting vs. Famalicão match on Sunday—it quickly collected the evidence and passed it on to the Prosecutor’s Office and the Commission for Equality and Against Racial Discrimination (CICDR) so that proper investigations can begin.
On social media, the 21-year-old player revealed racist messages he received after the match, sharing screenshots of the abuse on Instagram. He described the messages as “serious racist and xenophobic offenses,” which he said came from opposing supporters.
In his response, Ataíde said:
“I’m very proud of the color of my skin and the country I come from. My character and professionalism were built where I was born and raised. In the 21st century, after so many years fighting for equality, we still see racism. Recently, Vinícius Jr.’s case shocked the world, yet some people still haven’t learned that we are all equal. This is not just my fight, it’s everyone’s, and I will never give up.”
Following his statement, Famalicão released a message of support, calling the abuse “racist and xenophobic” and demanding accountability for those responsible.
The club added:
“Famalicão stands fully behind Otávio. The entire team and staff are with him, and we will make every effort to ensure the offenders are held responsible.”