Flamengo coach Filipe Luís has moved to clarify his recent comments regarding Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior, firmly condemning racism and calling for strong punishment if allegations against Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni are proven true. The controversy stems from last week’s Champions League playoff first leg in Lisbon, where Vinícius accused Prestianni of racially abusing him.
Uefa has provisionally suspended Prestianni pending the outcome of an ethics and disciplinary investigation. The suspension ensures the Argentine winger will not feature in the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu. The incident prompted FIFA’s anti-racism protocol, halting the match for 10 minutes as Madrid players considered walking off. Uefa has stated that further sanctions could follow once the investigation concludes, with Prestianni facing a possible 10-game ban if found guilty. Benfica has appealed the suspension but admitted the timelines make it unlikely he will be reinstated in time for the decisive clash.
Vinícius condemned racism after the match, calling Prestianni a coward and later posting on social media to denounce racist behavior. His teammate Kylian Mbappé backed him, claiming he heard the racial slurs and demanding a lifetime ban for Prestianni from the Champions League. The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) also weighed in, urging Uefa and FIFA to take exemplary action. In a formal statement, the CBF requested a thorough investigation and insisted that those responsible must be punished to set a strong precedent against discrimination in football.
Filipe Luís initially faced criticism for comments that some interpreted as minimizing the incident. He has now clarified his position, stressing that his words were misinterpreted. “At no time was my intention to minimize the racist act, nor to disrespect the victim,” he told reporters. He reaffirmed his support for Vinícius, declaring: “If Prestianni did this, let him pay severely.” Luís emphasized that symbolic gestures such as slogans or wristbands are not enough, arguing that real punishment is the only effective way to combat racism. He underscored Flamengo’s solidarity with Vinícius, highlighting his admiration for the player and commitment to anti-racism causes.
The case has intensified tensions between clubs, players, and governing bodies. Uefa’s disciplinary process reflects a serious and investigative tone, while Benfica has taken a defensive stance by appealing and supporting their player. On the other hand, Vinícius, Mbappé, Filipe Luís, and the CBF have adopted a condemnatory tone, demanding accountability and stronger sanctions. The controversy has created a tense and controversial atmosphere ahead of the second leg, with the outcome of Uefa’s investigation likely to shape both Prestianni’s future and Benfica’s reputation.
