Vinicius releases statement amid racism row

Real Madrid forward Vinicius has released a statement after he suffered alleged racist abuse from Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni in the Champions League playoffs first-leg clash against the Eagles at Estadio Da Luz.

The 25-year-old has been a loud, unflinching voice against racism, especially having been a victim of multiple incidents in the Spanish top flight. Yesterday’s allegation against Prestianni, who is said to have called Vinicius a 'monkey', is the latest incident, and as always, the Brazilian has not cowered, releasing a defiant statement on social media.

The former Flamengo star shared the statement on his Instagram story, and it reads as follows:

“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,” he said.

“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.”

As Pulse Sports reported, an allegation of racism marred an entertaining tie between Real Madrid and Benfica, which involved Brazilian winger Vinicius and Argentine youngster Gianluca Prestianni.

The game was stopped in the 50th minute, and the anti-racism protocol ensued after Vinicius reported the Benfica star to French referee François Letexier. A fracas broke out, and the game was held up for about ten minutes before play continued.