The Fallas of Valencia 2025 have not only been a parade of lights, music, and art, but also a battleground for controversy. This year, one of the unexpected protagonists has been the Real Madrid footballer, Vinícius Júnior.
The Brazilian, who is always in the eye of the storm due to his clashes with Valencia, was mocked during the celebration. The reason? A ninot called "Cagalló d'Or," an ironic parody of the Ballon d'Or that he didn't win last year.
The Design of the Ninot: A Visible Critique
The artist Víctor Navarro was responsible for creating the figure that became the center of attention. In the ninot, Vinícius appears with a divided jersey. One half is from Real Madrid, the club that hosts him, and the other half belongs to the Brazilian national team.
The design of the figure was not well received by everyone. From the moment it was unveiled, it caused controversy. But it didn't end there; the ninot not only represented an artistic critique but also became the focus of mockery during the festivities.
At one point, a group of people began to sing a mocking song: "Vinícius beach ball!" Laughter and jokes echoed through the streets of Valencia, fueling the controversy.
The Cremà: The Symbolic End
The final act of the Fallas is known as the Cremà, when all the ninots are burned to end the celebrations. Of course, Vinícius's ninot was no exception. The figure of the Brazilian player was thrown into the flames, an act that did not go unnoticed.
For many, the burning of the figure symbolized more than just a festive joke. The controversy surrounding Vinícius, fueled by his clashes with Valencia and other criticisms, found its culmination in this act. The "bonfire" seemed to represent everything the player has faced off the field: the constant tension with certain sectors of the Spanish fans.
Reaction in the Media: The Silence of El Chiringuito
The media repercussion was immediate. One of the most followed shows on Spanish television, El Chiringuito de Jugones, couldn't avoid commenting on what happened. However, the reaction was surprising.
The show's collaborators were speechless, visibly surprised by the act and the controversy it caused. This silence was interpreted as a tacit acknowledgment of the weight of the situation.
On the show, the long faces reflected how complicated it is for many to comment on Vinícius's situation without falling into controversy. The figure of the Brazilian has become divisive, and the silence of the commentators reflected the discomfort his presence generates in the public debate.