Brazil/ Vinicius Junior discovers his roots: Tikar ethnicity from Cameroon

In an unexpected moment before Brazil’s World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay, star forward Vinicius Junior received a unique gift—a certificate confirming the results of a DNA test. The test revealed that the Brazilian international traces part of his ancestry to the Tikar ethnic group in Cameroon.

Vinicius, who undertook the test to learn more about his heritage, now shares a connection with fellow football star Kylian Mbappé, whose father is of Cameroonian descent. This discovery adds a new layer to Vinicius’ identity and highlights the diverse roots of many football players who often represent countries far from their ancestral homelands.

The revelation has sparked curiosity among fans, with many wondering if Vinicius will follow in Mbappé’s footsteps by visiting Cameroon, where Mbappé was warmly welcomed during a recent trip.

For now, however, the focus remains on football, as Vinicius continues to shine for Brazil on the international stage.

This newfound connection to Cameroon underscores the unifying power of football, bridging continents and cultures while shedding light on the deep and often surprising histories of its players.