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Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr claimed he suffered racist abuse during his side’s Champions League clash with Benfica on February 17, 2026. The match stopped for around 10 minutes after the allegation. Real Madrid won the first-leg playoff tie 1-0 in Lisbon.
Vinicius Jr Releases Strong Statement
The incident happened moments after Vinicius Jr scored the winning goal in the 50th minute. He celebrated in front of Benfica fans and received a yellow card for excessive celebration. Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni then confronted him.Later that night Vinicius Jr posted a detailed message on social media.
“Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are,” Vinicius Jr said.
“But they have the protection of others who, theoretically, have an obligation to punish them,” he added.
He continued by noting the familiarity of the situation.
“Nothing that happened today is new in my life or in my team’s life. I received a yellow card for celebrating a goal. I still don’t understand why,” Vinicius Jr stated.
“On the other hand, it was just a poorly executed protocol that served no purpose,” he said.Vinicius Jr ended his post with reluctance.
“I don’t like to appear in situations like this, especially after a big win and when the headlines should be about Real Madrid, but it’s necessary,” he concluded.
Mbappe Backs Teammate and Demands Ban
French striker Kylian Mbappe stood firmly with Vinicius Jr and called for action against the Benfica player.
“Benfica are a top club, nothing against them… but Prestianni should NEVER play in UCL anymore,” Mbappe declared.
“Did Prestianni apologize? Did you see his face? An apology? We’re not stupid, me and Vini… we saw what he said,” Mbappe added.
Prestianni Denies Any Racist Insults
Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni responded hours later and rejected the claims.
“I want to clarify that at no time did I direct racist insults to Vini Jr, who regrettably misunderstood what he thought he heard,” Prestianni said.
“I was never racist with anyone and I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players,” he stated.
Referee Francois Letexier activated FIFA’s anti-racism protocol after Vinicius Jr reported the alleged abuse to him. Play resumed after the delay and Real Madrid held on for victory. UEFA officials are expected to review the referee’s report in the coming days.
