Racists are cowards – Vinicius Junior responds after alleged abuse at BenficaBy Press Association Sport StaffVinicius Junior has responded to alleged abuse during Real Madrid’s Champions League win over Benfica by saying “racists are cowards”. Vinicius Junior was allegedly targeted by a Benfica player (Pedro Rocha/AP) Photo by Pedro RochaVinicius hit out at the implementation of UEFA’s protocol put in place to tackle such incidents, while the governing body confirmed it is reviewing reports from Tuesday’s matches. After celebrating in front of the home fans, he became visibly upset about something said to him and immediately informed the referee. After the game, Vinicius posted in Portuguese on his Instagram story: “Racists are, above all, cowards. I want to be an independent.”Benfica’s head coach Jose Mourinho talks with Vinicius Junior after the incident (Pedro Rocha/AP) Photo by Pedro RochaMourinho then appeared to comment on previous incidents in which Vinicius has been subject to racist abuse in stadiums.

Source: Irish Independent February 18, 2026 11:33 UTC