Real Madrid star Vinícius Júnior has uncovered ancestral ties to the Tikar tribe in Cameroon after undergoing a DNA test facilitated by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) in collaboration with AfricanAncestry.com.
The results were revealed during a ceremony on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Fonte Nova Stadium, ahead of Brazil’s World Cup qualifier against Uruguay. Vinícius received a certificate confirming his heritage, presented by the CBF president Ednaldo Rodrigues, alongside his father, Vinícius José Paixão de Oliveira.
The initiative is part of the CBF’s Roots of Gold campaign, which celebrates the contributions and cultural pride of Afro-Brazilians in football and beyond.
Speaking at the event, Rodrigues highlighted the campaign’s mission, stating, “To celebrate Vini Jr. is to celebrate the success of all Brazilians. By discovering his roots, we reaffirm our commitment to inclusivity and acknowledge the invaluable role of Afro-Brazilian culture in shaping our national identity and football excellence.”
Gina Paige, founder and president of AfricanAncestry.com, emphasized the significance of reconnecting individuals of African descent to their origins.
“Vini Jr. embodies a deep desire to honour his heritage. However, like many descendants of Africans, his ancestral story has been obscured by racism and the scars of slavery. Through this DNA test, we traced his lineage to the Tikar tribe in Cameroon,” Paige explained. “This reconnection is not just a celebration but also an act of resistance, aligning with his advocacy for social justice on and off the field.”
Reacting to the discovery, Vinícius’ father expressed heartfelt joy. “It’s important to know where we come from. Many Brazilians are unaware of their ancestry. Knowing we’re connected to Cameroon is deeply meaningful.”
The moment Vinícius received his certificate was broadcast on the stadium’s giant screens, drawing applause from the audience. In a symbolic gesture, he wore a special jersey featuring the flags of Brazil and Cameroon during the match, which ended in a 1-1 draw.
This discovery underscores the importance of celebrating heritage and identity, inspiring a deeper connection between cultures and a shared history that transcends borders.