Vinicius Alleges Racist Abuse as Madrid Win Overshadowed

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior’s brilliant strike against Benfica in Tuesday’s Champions League play-off was overshadowed by another alleged incident of racist abuse directed at the Brazilian star.

The first-leg encounter was halted for 10 minutes after Vinicius informed referee Francois Letexier that Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni had called him a “monkey.” The 20-year-old Argentine, who appeared to cover his mouth while speaking during the altercation, has denied the allegation.

The 25-year-old Vinicius, who joined Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018, has repeatedly been the target of racist abuse, particularly in Spain.

In January 2023, Atletico Madrid supporters hung an effigy of him from a bridge near the club’s training ground. Later that year, he confronted fans at Valencia’s Mestalla stadium over racist insults, an incident that drew global condemnation.

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In 2024, three Valencia fans were found guilty of racially abusing him, marking Spain’s first criminal conviction for racism in football. In 2025, five Real Valladolid supporters were also convicted of hate crimes for racially insulting the forward during a 2022 match.

Most recently, Albacete fans were reported to have chanted racist insults outside their stadium before eliminating Real Madrid from the Copa del Rey in January.

The Benfica clash marks the first time Vinicius has accused an opposing player of racism.

“Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are,” he wrote on social media.

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Teammate Kylian Mbappe backed him strongly, saying Prestianni should not continue in the competition. “This guy doesn’t deserve to play in the Champions League again, that’s my opinion,” Mbappe said.

Despite the controversies, Vinicius remains one of Madrid’s most influential players. Known for his dribbling ability and expressive style, he frequently draws the ire of opposing fans, who often react to his celebrations and on-field confidence.

Observers note that while his animated personality and direct engagement with supporters may provoke reactions, they do not justify racist abuse.

As investigations continue, the incident once again highlights the persistent challenge of racism in European football and the spotlight that continues to follow Vinicius wherever he plays.