Kick It Out Condemns Mourinho's Response to Vinicius Racism Allegations
Jose Mourinho has faced severe backlash from anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out, which has accused the Benfica manager of "gaslighting" in his reaction to Vinicius Junior's claims of racist abuse. The incident occurred during Real Madrid's Champions League play-off match against Benfica in Lisbon on Tuesday, sparking widespread controversy and condemnation.
Match Incident and Mourinho's Controversial Comments
During the game, 25-year-old Vinicius Junior left the field after reporting a member of the Benfica team to the referee, with Real Madrid later identifying the player as winger Gianluca Prestianni. Mourinho drew heavy criticism for suggesting that Vinicius had provoked the abuse with his goal celebration after scoring the only goal early in the second half.
In an interview with Amazon Prime, Mourinho stated: "I told him, when you score a goal like that you just celebrate and walk back. They (Vinicius and Prestianni) told me different things. But I don't believe in one or another. I want to be an independent." He further commented on previous incidents involving Vinicius, saying: "There is something wrong because it happens in every stadium. A stadium where Vinicius plays, something happens, always."
Kick It Out's Strong Rebuke and Accusations of Gaslighting
Kick It Out issued a forceful statement in response, condemning Mourinho's approach. The charity emphasized: "When anyone reports discrimination in football, or anywhere, the first priority is that they are listened to and feel supported." It added: "Focusing on Vinicius Jr's goal celebration or the history of the club, instead of acknowledging the report, is a form of gaslighting. 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."
Club Statements and Player Reactions
Benfica released a statement on Wednesday, asserting their commitment to cooperation with UEFA's measures but defending Prestianni against what they called a "smear campaign." The club said: "Benfica also reiterates its full support and belief in the version presented by player Gianluca Prestianni, whose conduct while playing for the club has always been guided by respect for opponents, institutions, and the principles that define Benfica's identity. The club condemns the smear campaign to which the player has been subjected."
Prestianni denied the allegations in a Portuguese Instagram post, 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."
Criticism from Football Pundits and Figures
Former Real Madrid midfielder Clarence Seedorf, who was working as a pundit at the game, labeled Mourinho's comments as "a big mistake." On CBS's coverage, Micah Richards described them as "hypocrisy," while Jamie Carragher called them "a bit rich" from someone known for antagonizing opponents in the past.
Match Stoppage and Vinicius's Response
The match was paused for 10 minutes in accordance with UEFA regulations, with Vinicius completing the full game. He later criticized the implementation of UEFA's protocol on his Instagram story, posting in Portuguese: "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. 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."
FIFA President's Call to Action
FIFA president Gianni Infantino expressed shock and sadness over the incident, urging stakeholders to take decisive action. In a statement on FIFA's official Media X account, he said: "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." UEFA has confirmed it is investigating the matter.
