Vinicius Jr. Reports Alleged Racist Abuse During Champions League Match

Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior reported alleged racist abuse during a Champions League match against Benfica, halting play for ten minutes after he accused Benfica's Argentinian forward Gianluca Prestianni of calling him a "monkey." Prestianni denies the allegations.

The incident marks the latest in a string of racist episodes targeting the Brazilian winger since his arrival in Madrid in 2018. The match was briefly stopped after Vinicius informed the referee of the alleged slur.

Real Madrid's Kylian Mbappe has called for Prestianni to be banned from the Champions League over the incident. "This player doesn't deserve to play in the Champions League again," he said.

Vinicius, who scored a goal in Real Madrid's victory over Benfica, has been a frequent target of racist abuse, primarily in Spain. In 2023, Atletico Madrid fans hung an effigy of him from a bridge. Later that year, he clashed with Valencia fans, resulting in widespread condemnation and support for his fight against racism.

In response to the incidents, Vinicius stated, "I am not a victim of racism. I am a tormentor of racists." He also hailed a criminal conviction against Valencia fans as a landmark decision, "This is the first criminal conviction in the history of Spain, not for me, but for all black people."

Five Real Valladolid fans were convicted of hate crimes for racially abusing Vinicius in 2022, marking the first such conviction for insults inside a football stadium in Spain.

Other incidents include racist chants by Albacete fans before a Copa del Rey match. The Benfica game marks the first time Vinicius has accused a fellow player of racism.

Vinicius responded to the latest abuse on social media, stating, "Racists, above all, are cowards. They need to put their shirts over their mouths to show their weakness."

Some observers, including former Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho, have pointed to Vinicius's playing style and on-field behavior as potential factors contributing to the abuse. Mourinho noted that "something always happens" when Vinicius plays.

Vinicius is known for his provocative dribbling skills, frequent appeals to referees, and expressive celebrations, which have often drawn the ire of opposing players and fans. Following the Benfica match, where he danced near the corner flag, Mbappe encouraged Vinicius to continue his celebrations, stating, "Dance, Vini. And please don't stop. No one will dictate what we should or shouldn't do."