CBF Backs Vinícius Júnior After Racist Incident in Lisbon

Lisbon—The Brazilian Football Confederation issued an unequivocal statement of support for Vinícius Júnior on Tuesday after the forward reported suffering racist abuse during Real Madrid’s 1-0 UEFA first-leg victory over Benfica at the Estádio da Luz.

Vinícius, whose lone strike sealed the win and was celebrated alongside teammates Kylian Mbappé and Trent Alexander-Arnold, told match officials that Argentine Benfica substitute Gianluca Prestianni directed racial slurs at him late in the contest. Referees immediately activated the anti-racism protocol, and stadium announcements condemning discriminatory behavior echoed across the stands.

Within hours of the final whistle, the CBF released a forceful communiqué standing shoulder-to-shoulder with the 24-year-old Seleção standout.

“The CBF stands in solidarity with Vinícius Júnior, victim of yet another act of racism this Tuesday, after scoring for Real Madrid against Benfica in Lisbon,” the federation declared. “Racism is a crime. It is unacceptable. It cannot exist in football or anywhere else. Your decision to activate the protocol is an example of courage and dignity. We are proud of you. We will remain steadfast in the fight against all forms of discrimination. We stand by your side. Always.”

The episode marks the latest in a series of racist incidents targeting the Madrid winger. In 2023 Spanish police arrested four individuals after an effigy of Vinícius was hung from a bridge in the Spanish capital, an event that spurred LaLiga and clubs across Spain to reinforce anti-racism measures.

UEFA is expected to open a formal investigation once the match delegate’s report is submitted, and Benfica have yet to comment publicly on the allegation against their player.

Vinícius left Lisbon with both the winning goal and renewed backing from his country’s governing body, reinforcing the message that racism will be met with zero tolerance.