Vinícius Júnior has released a strong statement on Instagram after allegedly being racially abused by Gianluca Prestianni during Real Madrid’s game against Benfica.

According to reports from the match, Prestianni allegedly directed a racist gesture toward Vinícius, appearing to call him a monkey while covering his mouth to avoid being seen by cameras. The referee briefly halted the game after Vinícius insisted on bringing the incident to attention. The anti-racism protocol was activated, and Prestianni was warned but not sent off.

Vinícius also received a yellow card for celebrating a goal, a decision he questioned in his post-match reaction.

Taking to Instagram, the Real Madrid forward expressed his frustration and disappointment over the incident, while emphasizing that such experiences are not new to him or his team.

“Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are.

But they have the protection of others who, theoretically, have an obligation to punish them.

Nothing that happened today is new in my life or in my team’s life. I received a yellow card for celebrating a goal. I still don’t understand why. On the other hand, it was just a poorly executed protocol that served no purpose.

I don’t like to appear in situations like this, especially after a big win and when the headlines should be about Real Madrid, but it’s necessary.”

The incident has once again raised serious concerns about racism in football and the effectiveness of existing disciplinary measures, with many calling for stronger action to combat discrimination in the sport.