A DNA test has revealed that Vinícius Jr., the star winger for Brazil and Real Madrid, has ancestral roots in the Tikar tribe of Cameroon.
The test, conducted by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) in collaboration with AfricanAncestry.com on November 19, 2024, at Fonte Nova, traced the player’s lineage to the prominent Cameroonian tribe. To commemorate the discovery, a certificate of recognition was presented to Vinícius Jr., accompanied by a video detailing the legacy of his Tikar ancestors.
This initiative is part of the CBF’s “Roots of Gold” campaign, which celebrates the heritage and pride of Afro-Brazilian communities with a special focus on their contributions to football.
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Reflecting on the discovery, Vinícius Jr. shared, “Learning that my roots are in Cameroon is a deeply meaningful moment for me and my family. It reminds us that, despite all the challenges, our origins and history hold great significance.”
His father expressed similar sentiments, stating, “Understanding where we come from is crucial. Many Brazilians are unaware of their ancestry or heritage. Knowing we have Cameroonian roots is something to celebrate.”
Gina Paige, founder and president of AfricanAncestry.com, highlighted the importance of reconnecting African descendants with their heritage. She noted, “Vinícius Jr. embodies a deep respect for his roots, even as the legacy of slavery and racism has obscured his ancestral story. Discovering his connection to the Tikar tribe is a powerful act of reclamation and aligns with his ongoing advocacy for social justice.”
To honor his newfound heritage, Vinícius Jr. wore a unique jersey featuring the flags of Brazil and Cameroon during a match against Uruguay. The game ended in a 1-1 draw, with Vinícius playing the full 90 minutes.