FIFA president Gianni Infantino has condemned alleged racist abuse of Vinicius Junior after Real Madrid’s Champions League win over Benfica.
Los Blancos’ 1–0 win over Benfica in the first leg of the Champions League knockout phase playoffs turned into something much larger than just a football match when Prestianni allegedly made racially fueled comments to Vinicius Jr. after the Brazilian scored the game’s only goal.
The match was delayed as referee François Letexier trigged UEFA’s anti-racism protocol, though no consequences were handed out during the match or in the immediate aftermath of the final whistle.
Reacting to the development, Infantino in a statement issued on Wednesday, expressed his support for the Real Madrid star and his concern over what allegedly took place during the UEFA Champions League match.
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Infantino made his stance clear. The FIFA president said he was “shocked and saddened” by the alleged incident and stressed that there is absolutely no place for racism in football or in society.
“I was shocked and saddened to witness the alleged racist incident against Vinícius Júnior during the UEFA Champions League match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid FC.
“There is absolutely no place for racism in our sport or in society – we need all relevant stakeholders to take action and hold those responsible accountable.
“At FIFA, through the Global Initiative Against Racism and the Player Voice Panel, we are committed to ensuring that players, officials, and fans are respected and protected, and that appropriate measures are taken whenever incidents occur. I commend referee François Letexier for activating the anti-racism protocol by using the arm gesture to stop the match and manage the situation.
“FIFA and football stand in full solidarity with victims of racism and all forms of discrimination. I will always continue to repeat: No to racism! No to any form of discrimination!”
