Anti-discrimination organisation Kick It Out has launched a scathing attack on Jose Mourinho, accusing the Benfica manager of gaslighting following his controversial remarks about Vinicius Junior's allegations of racist abuse. The incident occurred during Real Madrid's Champions League play-off match against Benfica in Lisbon on Tuesday evening.
Mourinho's Controversial Comments
The 25-year-old Brazilian forward left the pitch during the crucial European fixture after reporting to the referee that he had been subjected to racist abuse from a Benfica player. Spanish media later identified the alleged perpetrator as winger Gianluca Prestianni. Mourinho faced immediate backlash for suggesting that Vinicius had somehow provoked the abuse through his goal celebration after scoring the decisive second-half goal.
Speaking to Amazon Prime, the Portuguese coach stated: "I told him, when you score a goal like that you just celebrate and walk back. They told me different things. But I don't believe in one or another. I want to be an independent." Mourinho then appeared to reference previous incidents where Vinicius has been targeted with racist abuse in stadiums across Europe, remarking: "There is something wrong because it happens in every stadium. A stadium where Vinicius plays, something happens, always."
Strong Rebuke from Anti-Racism Campaigners
Kick It Out responded with a powerful statement condemning Mourinho's approach: "When anyone reports discrimination in football, or anywhere, the first priority is that they are listened to and feel supported. Focusing on Vinicius Jr's goal celebration or the history of the club, instead of acknowledging the report, is a form of gaslighting."
The charity continued: "This approach not only harms the individual affected but also sends the wrong message to others around the world who may have experienced similar situations. Leaders in football have a crucial role in setting standards, and moments like these call for responsible leadership that reinforces respect, inclusion, and accountability."
Football Community Reacts
Former Real Madrid midfielder Clarence Seedorf, who was working as a pundit for the broadcast, described Mourinho's comments as "a big mistake." He elaborated: "I think he made a big mistake today to justify racial abuse, and I'm not saying that was the case today but he mentioned something more than today. He said wherever he goes these things happen, so he's saying it's OK when Vinicius provokes you, that is it OK to be racist and I think that is very wrong. We should never, ever justify racial abuse."
Benfica's only public response came in the form of a video posted on social media with the accompanying message: "As the images demonstrate, given the distance, the Real Madrid players could not have heard what they are saying they heard." Meanwhile, Gianluca Prestianni denied the allegations through an Instagram statement shared by Benfica, writing: "I want to clarify that at no time did I direct racist insults to Vini Jr, who regrettably misunderstood what he thought he heard. I was never racist with anyone and I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players."
Match Protocol and Aftermath
The game was temporarily halted in accordance with UEFA regulations, resulting in a ten-minute stoppage before Vinicius returned to complete the match. The Brazilian forward later criticised the implementation of UEFA's anti-racism protocol on his Instagram story, stating: "Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to demonstrate how weak they are. But they have protection from others who, theoretically, have the obligation to punish. Nothing that happened today is new in my life and my family's."
He added: "I received a yellow card for celebrating a goal. Still not understanding why. On the other side, just a poorly executed protocol that served no purpose. I don't like to appear in situations like this, even more so after a great victory and when the headlines have to be about Real Madrid, but it's necessary."
Global Football Figures Weigh In
FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed his concern about the incident, stating: "I was shocked and saddened to see the incident of alleged racism towards Vinicius Junior in the Champions League match between Benfica and Real Madrid. There is absolutely no room for racism in our sport and in society – we need all the relevant stakeholders to take action and hold those responsible to account."
England and Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold offered strong support for his teammate, declaring: "I think what has happened tonight is a disgrace to football and overshadowed the performance as well after an amazing goal. Vini has been subject to this a few times throughout his career. To ruin a night like this for our team is a disgrace. No place for it in football or society. It is disgusting."
UEFA has confirmed it is investigating the incident, while Kick It Out has called for a thorough investigation with appropriate accountability linked to the outcome. The controversy highlights ongoing challenges in football's fight against racism and the importance of leadership responses in such sensitive situations.
