Brazilian star suggests jail time for Benfica star in Vinicius racism row

Felipe Melo has called for severe punishment following the alleged racist incident involving Vinicius Junior and Benfica youngster Gianluca Prestianni.

The former Brazilian international did not mince words, insisting that racism is a crime and must carry serious consequences.

The controversy erupted after a heated moment between Vinícius Júnior and Gianluca Prestianni during a recent UEFA Champions League clash between Real Madrid and Benfica. While details of the exchange sparked widespread debate, Melo’s stance was unequivocal.

Speaking to Win-Win, the outspoken Brazilian stressed that racism should never be tolerated in modern football or society at large.

“This can’t happen again. We’re in 2026. Racism ended a long time ago. It’s a crime. Prestianni has to pay the price. He should be punished severely - financially and also with prison time,” Melo said.

His comments underline growing frustration among players over repeated cases involving Vinicius, who has been the target of racist abuse on several occasions in Spain and across Europe. Melo’s suggestion of jail time reflects the seriousness with which he believes such incidents should be treated.

Beyond condemning the alleged act, Melo urged football’s governing bodies to step in decisively. He called on both UEFA and FIFA to pursue legal action and ensure accountability.

“We want action. We want punishment. We’re fed up with racism, and the world is fed up with it,” he added, making it clear that symbolic gestures are no longer enough.

Melo also criticised the reaction of José Mourinho, though he did not elaborate extensively on his remarks.

For the Brazilian, the message remains simple: football must take a zero-tolerance approach, and those found guilty must face consequences strong enough to deter future offences.