During the 2023 Golden Ball awards ceremony, Real Madrid midfielder Vinicius received the Socrates Award for his contributions off the field.
Vinicus, a player who repeatedly suffered racist actions in La Liga in the past 2 seasons, has established a fund to build schools in his home country of Brazil. The Real Madrid winger was awarded the Socrates Award for his contribution to society.

“I will continue to be strong in the fight against racism” – Vinicius affirmed. “It is sad that racism still exists, but we must fight so that many people suffer less. I am very happy to receive this award and help many children in Brazil, helping them have many opportunities.”

Vinicius received the Socrates Award at the 2023 Golden Ball awards ceremony

Vinicius also honored football King Pele, the legend who passed away last December: “For me, Pele is a god, what I have today is thanks to him. Pele brought Brazilian football to another level and people respect Brazilian players thanks to the great legacy he left behind.”

The Vinicius Foundation was established in 2020, aiming to support education and contribute to the construction of schools in Brazil. The project affirms that there will be 15 schools and 10,000 students funded by the end of 2023.

One noteworthy aspect of Vinicius’ off-field endeavors is his commitment to supporting education in Brazil, his homeland. Recognizing the importance of education as a catalyst for positive change, he has taken proactive steps to make a meaningful impact. Vinicius has been instrumental in the construction and development of more than 15 schools across Brazil, providing educational opportunities to thousands of students.

Through his philanthropic efforts, Vinicius has managed to create a lasting legacy by establishing a network of educational institutions that go beyond the confines of traditional charity. These schools not only offer a platform for academic growth but also serve as beacons of hope for the communities they are situated in.

The impact of Vinicius’ initiatives is further emphasized by the impressive number of students benefiting from his contributions – over 10,000 and counting. By fostering education, Vinicius aims to break the cycle of poverty and create a brighter future for the youth in Brazil, empowering them to overcome socio-economic challenges.

In addition to his support for education, Vinicius actively engages in initiatives promoting diversity and equality. His dedication to eradicating racial discrimination is evident in both his words and actions, making him not only a football star but also a role model for social responsibility. Vinicius Junior’s commitment to creating positive change both on and off the field solidifies his status as a true ambassador for the beautiful game and a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes and philanthropists alike.