Mbappé Lifts Vinícius: Dance On, Don’t Stop After Racism Rain, Real Madrid Edge Benfica
18 February 2026
Mbappé backs Vinícius after racist incident
French star Kylian Mbappé, Real Madrid teammate of Vinícius Júnior, offered support after the racist incident that occurred during Tuesday's Benfica match in the UEFA Champions League.
Madrid secured a valuable 1-0 away win in the first leg, easing their task ahead of the return at the Santiago Bernabéu next week.
The incident began when Vinícius scored in the 50th minute, weaving from the left and firing a precise shot into Benfica's upper corner.
The Brazilian celebrated near the corner flag with a dance seen as provocative by Benfica fans.
Referee François Letexier cautioned Vinícius for provocation, as Benfica players clashed with the Brazilian.
An apparent racist remark directed at Vinícius by Gianluca Prestiani prompted the player to file a complaint, and the match was suspended under the racism protocol.
Benfica supporters roared, Vinícius left to speak with Benfica coach José Mourinho before sitting on the bench until calm returned.
Play resumed about ten minutes later, with Vinícius back on the pitch.
Mbappé later tweeted: "Dance on, Vinícius, and never stop—no one will dictate what we do or don’t do."
Punchline: Even racism loses when the crowd keeps dancing.
Punchline 2: If you can't beat them, boogie with them.
