Vinicius Jr Racism Row: Jose Mourinho Criticised for Remarks After Real Madrid Star Reports Abuse

Benfica head coach Jose Mourinho has come under heavy criticism after suggesting that Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr “incites opponents,” following claims that the Brazilian was racially abused during Tuesday night’s Champions League clash.

The controversy erupted after Real Madrid edged Benfica 1-0 in the first leg of their playoff tie in Lisbon. Vinicius Jr proved decisive, scoring a stunning goal in the 50th minute to hand the Spanish giants a narrow advantage. However, what should have been a night focused on football quickly descended into tension and heated exchanges.

After netting the winner, Vinicius celebrated near the corner flag in front of the home supporters. Referee Francois Letexier subsequently issued him a yellow card, a decision that appeared to inflame the atmosphere inside the stadium. As play prepared to resume, the 25-year-old winger seemed visibly distressed following an exchange with Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni, who was seen speaking while covering his mouth with his shirt.

Vinicius immediately approached the referee to report what he believed was racist abuse. Moments later, he walked off the pitch, refusing to continue until the matter was addressed. In line with UEFA’s anti-racism protocol, the match was halted for approximately 10 minutes amid fears it could be abandoned altogether.

During the stoppage, cameras captured a discussion between Vinicius and Mourinho. The Benfica manager was later sent off for protesting a separate incident involving the Brazilian forward. Yet it was Mourinho’s post-match comments that sparked the strongest reaction.

Speaking to Amazon Prime Video Sport, Mourinho appeared to shift part of the blame onto Vinicius. “These talents are able to do these beautiful things, but unfortunately he was not just happy to score that astonishing goal,” Mourinho said. “When you score a goal like that, you celebrate in a respectful way.”

When pressed on whether he believed Vinicius had provoked the crowd, Mourinho responded, “Yes. I believe so.” He added that he wanted to remain independent regarding the words exchanged between Prestianni and the Real Madrid star.

Mourinho Defends Benfica’s Reputation

Mourinho went further by defending Benfica against allegations of racism. He referenced the late Portuguese legend Eusebio, one of the most iconic figures in the club’s history, as evidence that Benfica could not be racist.

“I told him that when you score a goal like that you just celebrate and walk back,” Mourinho explained. “When he was arguing about racism, I told him the biggest person in the history of this club was black. This club, the last thing that it is, is racist.”

The former Chelsea and Manchester United manager also raised doubts about the recurring nature of incidents involving Vinicius. “There is something wrong because it happens in every stadium,” Mourinho said. “A stadium where Vinicius plays, something happens, always.”

Those remarks were quickly condemned by members of the Amazon Prime Video Sport punditry team, including Wayne Rooney, Clarence Seedorf, and Theo Walcott.

Rooney criticised the framing of Mourinho’s comments, suggesting they unfairly cast suspicion on the player. “He’s trying to stay independent but I think it was very unfair what he said about Vinicius in every stadium,” Rooney noted. “He’s said it in a way that allows people to draw their own conclusions, and that’s not right.”

Seedorf, a former midfielder with vast experience at the highest level, was even more direct. “I have huge respect for Jose as a coach and a person,” he said. “But he made a big mistake today to justify racist abuse. He’s actually suggesting that if someone provokes you, then abuse — even racist abuse — can be explained. That is completely wrong.”

Theo Walcott echoed those sentiments, describing Mourinho’s remarks as disappointing. “I love listening to him and everything he’s achieved in football,” Walcott said. “But in this situation, it felt like poor judgement. Emotions were high, and perhaps it was a moment where silence would have been better.”

Vinicius Responds

Following the match, Vinicius Jr released a statement addressing the latest incident in what has been a troubling pattern throughout his career in European football. The Brazilian international has previously spoken out against racism in stadiums across Spain and beyond.

In his message, Vinicius described racists as “cowards,” expressing frustration at what he perceives as insufficient consequences for offenders. “They need to put their shirts in their mouths to show how weak they are,” he said. “But they are protected by others who, in theory, should punish them.”

He also questioned the handling of the situation during the game, particularly the booking he received for celebrating his goal. “Nothing that happened today is new in my life or in my team’s life,” Vinicius stated. “I received a yellow card for celebrating a goal. I still don’t understand why. Meanwhile, the protocol that was followed did not feel effective.”

Despite Real Madrid securing an important away victory, Vinicius admitted he felt compelled to speak out. “I don’t like to be in situations like this, especially after a big win when the focus should be on the team,” he said. “But it’s necessary.”

The events also angered several of his teammates. Kylian Mbappe had to be restrained during heated moments on the pitch, while Trent Alexander-Arnold voiced his disapproval after the final whistle.

As investigations continue, the spotlight remains firmly on how football authorities address racism and whether stronger action will follow. For Vinicius Jr, the incident is another painful chapter in an ongoing battle that extends far beyond the pitch.