Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid and Brazil earned the 2023 Socrates Award at the Ballon d’Or event in Paris on Monday.
Sadio Mane earned the prize in 2022, which was founded to recognise footballers for their humanitarian contributions.
Vinicius founded the Instituto Vini Jr. in 2021, with the goal of educating young Brazilians and making Brazil a more equal country via the use of technology and sport.
Vinicius has already committed over $4 million in the project.
Vinicius has faced numerous incidents of racist abuse during his career in Spain, and Didier Drogba, who hosted Monday’s awards ceremony, encouraged him to speak out.
“Thank you for what you are doing for the less fortunate kids,” former Chelsea and Ivory Coast striker Drogba thanked Vinicius. It makes me quite proud.
“However, I’d like to discuss something that makes me prouder. It is your battle against racism.
“You have experienced it way too many times as a player and I would like you to use the Ballon d’Or ceremony as a platform to send a strong message to the world, please.”
Vinicius then stated in Portuguese, “I will remain strong in the fight against racism.” It is incredibly painful to talk about racism these days, but we must continue to fight so that people suffer less.
“I am overjoyed to receive this award and to be able to help so many children in Brazil.” I had little opportunity of getting where I am coming from, so it is a pleasure for me to assist as many children as possible so they can have a chance.”
“It is important to stand together and fight racism,” he added. I’d want to thank all of the outstanding players here who are assisting us in our struggle.”
The speech was met with thunderous ovation, and Drogba said, “Vinicius, you are not alone in this fight.”
“It has gone on for far too long, far too long, and I would like to call on football authorities and governments to take action.”
“It is time for real actions to eradicate racism, not only in stadiums, but everywhere in the world.”
Vinicius finished sixth in the Ballon d’Or voting for 2023, which was won by Lionel Messi.