Vinicius Junior learned about his ancestry after taking a DNA test.

The star football player of the Spanish giant Real Madrid, Vinícius Júnior, discovered through a DNA test conducted in collaboration with the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) and AfricanAncestry.com that his roots trace back to the Tikar tribe in Cameroon.

PRESENTED IN A CEREMONY

On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, the results of the DNA test were made public in a special ceremony held at Fonte Nova. During the ceremony, Vinícius Júnior was presented with an official certificate confirming his descent from the Tikar tribe.

THE PLAYER WAS ACCOMPANIED BY HIS FAMILY AND CBF PRESIDENT

During the ceremony, Vinícius was accompanied by his father, Vinícius José Paixão de Oliveira, and the President of the Brazilian Football Confederation, Ednaldo Rodrigues. The certificate was presented to the player before Brazil's World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay.

This meaningful discovery was recorded as an important moment that strengthens Vinícius Júnior's connection not only to his sporting career but also to his cultural roots.

Vinícius Júnior's discovery of his roots was part of the "Roots of Gold" campaign initiated by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) to celebrate the history and pride of the Afro-Brazilian community.

Speaking at the event, CBF President Ednaldo Rodrigues emphasized the social significance of this initiative, stating: "Celebrating Vini Jr. is celebrating the success of all Brazilians. Knowing his roots reaffirms our commitment to an inclusive society. We acknowledge the fundamental role of Afro-Brazilian culture in our identity and success in world football."

MEMBER OF THE TIKAR TRIBE IN CAMEROON

Gina Paige, founder and president of AfricanAncestry.com, also highlighted the importance of such initiatives during the ceremony. Paige stated: "Vini Jr. carries within him a respect for his roots and a desire to honor his heritage. However, like many of African descent, his ancestors' story has been erased by the legacy of racism and slavery. Through the DNA test we conducted, we discovered that Vini Jr.'s ancestors belong to the Tikar tribe in Cameroon."

This campaign contributed to bringing not only the football world but also Brazil's cultural richness back into the spotlight.

“KNOWING WHERE WE COME FROM IS IMPORTANT”

Sharing his feelings about this meaningful discovery, Vinícius's father, Vinícius José Paixão de Oliveira, said, "Knowing where we come from is very important to us. Many Brazilians do not know their ancestors or roots. Learning that we come from Cameroon made me happy." The moment Vinícius received the certificate documenting his belonging to the Tikar tribe was broadcast live on the giant screens of Fonte Nova Stadium and received great applause from the audience. The excitement at the ceremony touched the hearts of not only football fans but also those celebrating their cultural ties.