Vinicius racist abuse halts Real Madrid vs Benfica match as Brazilian star alleges player used racial slur in Champions League clash
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior reported an incident of alleged racist abuse during Tuesday’s Champions League play-off first-leg match against Benfica, prompting a 10-minute halt in play.
The 20-year-old Argentine midfielder Gianluca Prestianni, who was accused of calling Vinicius a “monkey,” denies the allegation.
The players temporarily left the pitch after Vinicius informed referee Francois Letexier of the incident. Benfica’s Prestianni covered his mouth during the confrontation, appearing to speak to Vinicius.
Vinicius, 25, has been a frequent target of racist abuse since joining Real Madrid from Flamengo in 2018.
Previous incidents include an effigy being hung by Atletico fans in 2023 and repeated abuse by Valencia and Real Valladolid supporters, which led to historic hate-crime convictions in Spain.
“I’m not a victim of racism. I am a tormentor of racists,” Vinicius wrote on X in 2024, following one of the landmark convictions, adding that the ruling was “not for me. It’s for all black people.”
Team-mate Kylian Mbappe condemned the alleged abuse, calling for Prestianni to be barred from the competition.
“This guy doesn’t deserve to play in the Champions League again, that’s my opinion,” Mbappe said.
Benfica coach Jose Mourinho acknowledged the pattern of abuse Vinicius faces.
“There is something wrong because it happens in every stadium,” he said.
Observers note that Vinicius’ style of play provocative dribbling, direct engagement with opposition fans, and animated goal celebrations can inflame crowds.
During the Benfica match, he celebrated a brilliant goal by dancing near the corner flag, prompting fans to throw objects onto the pitch.
Speaking out against racism has made Vinicius an even more visible target, but he continues to maintain his composure and fight against discrimination on and off the field.
