Zurich, Switzerland – FIFA President Gianni Infantino has issued a strong statement supporting Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior after he was subjected to racism in the Champions League play-off match against Benfica.
Infantino wrote on his personal Instagram account: “I was shocked and saddened to see the alleged racist incident towards Vinicius Junior in the Champions League match between Benfica and Real Madrid”.
He added: “There is no room for racism in our sport or in our society. We need all concerned to take the necessary measures and hold those responsible to account”.
He continued: “At FIFA, through the Global Stand Against Racism initiative and the Players’ Voice Committee, we are committed to ensuring that players, referees and fans are respected and protected, and that appropriate action is taken when such incidents occur. I commend referee Francois Letixsier for activating the anti-racism protocol by using an arm signal to stop the match and address the situation”.
He concluded: “FIFA and football declare their full solidarity with the victims of racism and any form of discrimination, and I will always continue to emphasize: No to racism, no to any form of discrimination”.
Vinicius Junior was subjected to racist chants from some Benfica fans after scoring the winning goal for Real Madrid on Tuesday night. He also accused a Benfica player of racially abusing him during the match.
