DNA test result links Vinicius Jr. to Cameroonian ancestry

Brazil and Real Madrid football sensation Vinicius Jr. has been revealed to have ancestral ties to Cameroon, specifically the Tikar tribe, according to a DNA test conducted by the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF).

The groundbreaking discovery was made on Tuesday, November 19, 2024, at Fonte Nova, in collaboration with AfricanAncestry.com. The test is part of the CBF’s “Roots of Gold” campaign, an initiative aimed at celebrating the Afro-Brazilian community’s historical and cultural legacy through football.

A certificate recognizing Vinicius Jr.’s Cameroonian roots was presented, alongside a documentary video showcasing the rich heritage of the Tikar tribe, one of Cameroon’s prominent ethnic groups.

Vinicius Jr., known for his electrifying performances on the field, has become a symbol of pride for the Afro-Brazilian community. This revelation adds a new dimension to his identity, connecting him to the African continent’s diverse cultural tapestry.

The CBF’s campaign underscores the shared history between Africa and Brazil, particularly through the lens of football, which has long been a bridge between the two regions.

Speaking about his roots, Vinicius said, “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.”

In response to the discovery, Vinícius’ father shared his excitement, saying, ‘It’s important for us to know where we come from. Many Brazilians are unaware of their ancestry or heritage. I’m happy that we have roots in Cameroon too.’

The founder and president of AfricanAncestry.com, Gina Paige, underscored the importance of helping people of African descent reconnect with their heritage.

“Vini Jr. carries within him the desire to honour his heritage. However, like many individuals of African descent, his ancestral story has been erased by racism and the legacy of slavery. Through a DNA test, we discovered that Vini Jr.’s ancestors belong to the Tikar tribe in Cameroon.

“We believe that Vini’s reconnection with his African roots is a powerful ‘act of resistance,’ in line with his advocacy for social justice both on and off the football pitch,” Page said.

In honor of his ancestry, Vinicius Jr. wore a special jersey featuring the flags of Brazil and Cameroon for the match against Uruguay, which ended in a 1-1 draw, with the winger playing the entire 90 minutes.