Vinicius Faces Alleged Racist Abuse in Lisbon

Real Madrid secured a 1–0 victory over Benfica in the first leg of their Champions League play-off clash at Estádio da Luz last night, courtesy of a goal from Brazilian star Vinicius Júnior. However, the match was overshadowed by a serious allegation of racial abuse, creating tension on and off the pitch.

The controversy erupted in the 50th minute, moments after Vinicius scored. As he celebrated near the corner flag, he reportedly exchanged words with Benfica’s Argentine winger, Gianluca Prestiani. Vinicius claimed that Prestiani directed racial slurs at him, allegedly calling him a “monkey” multiple times. Referee François Letexier halted the game for over ten minutes to address the incident under anti-racism protocols. According to Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Chouameni, Vinicius told teammates that Prestiani had verbally abused him.

Broadcast footage showed Prestiani covering his face with his jersey while speaking to Vinicius, after which the Brazilian player ran to the referee, pointing at the alleged offender. Letexier signalled the accusation of racial misconduct by crossing his hands over his chest. Vinicius has previously been targeted by racial abuse on multiple occasions, making this another distressing episode.

Following the match, Vinicius posted on Instagram: “Racists are cowards. They hide their weakness behind a jersey and say things they shouldn’t.” Prestiani responded approximately four hours later, denying the allegations: “I have never made any racist comment towards Vinicius Júnior. Unfortunately, he misunderstood the situation. I have never been racist towards anyone.”

Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa confirmed that the club stood firmly behind Vinicius. He added that the team was prepared to leave the field if necessary but decided to continue playing after discussions. Arbeloa emphasised zero tolerance for racism: “In 2026, incidents like this should have no place in football. Vinicius knew we supported him fully.”

Several teammates and observers expressed their dismay over the incident.

Benfica coach José Mourinho described the event cautiously, acknowledging differing accounts from both players and stressing his desire to remain neutral. He also reminded Vinicius of Benfica’s history with Black legends such as Eusébio, asserting that the club itself should not be labelled racist.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) issued a statement backing Vinicius, highlighting that racism has no place in football or society: “Vinicius is not alone. By following protocol, he showed courage and dignity. We stand firmly against all forms of discrimination.”

The second leg of the play-off will take place on 25 February at Santiago Bernabéu, with global attention focused on both the sporting outcome and the handling of the serious allegations.

This incident underscores the ongoing struggle against racial abuse in football, emphasising the responsibility of clubs, referees, and governing bodies to uphold integrity, respect, and safety on the pitch.