Brazilian football star Vinícius Jr., who also plays for Real Madrid, recently discovered his ancestral connection to Cameroon through a DNA test.
The revelation was made during an event organized by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) in collaboration with AfricanAncestry.com. Held on November 19, 2024, at Fonte Nova, the test traced Vinícius Jr.’s lineage to the Tikar tribe, a significant ethnic group in Cameroon.
To celebrate this discovery, Vinícius was presented with a certificate of recognition and a video detailing the legacy of his Tikar ancestors. The initiative is part of the CBF’s “Roots of Gold” campaign, designed to honor the African heritage of Brazilian players and their communities. This program aims to reconnect Afro-Brazilians with their roots and highlight the role of African culture in shaping Brazil’s identity, particularly in football.
Reflecting on his newfound heritage, Vinícius shared, “Discovering that my roots are in Cameroon is a very special moment for me and my family. It reminds me that, despite the challenges, our origins and our history count for a lot.”
Vinícius’ father expressed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of understanding one’s ancestry. “Many Brazilians are unaware of their heritage. I’m happy that we have roots in Cameroon too,” he said.
Gina Paige, founder of AfricanAncestry.com, highlighted the broader significance of the discovery. She noted that reconnecting with African ancestry is a meaningful way to reclaim stories lost due to slavery and systemic racism. “Vini Jr.’s connection to the Tikar tribe is an act of resistance, aligning with his dedication to social justice both on and off the field,” Paige remarked.
To mark this special connection, Vinícius donned a custom jersey showcasing the flags of Brazil and Cameroon during a match against Uruguay, which ended in a 1-1 draw. He played the full 90 minutes, proudly representing both his Brazilian and Cameroonian heritage.
