Vinícius Júnior at centre of renewed Brazilian anti-racism push amid Benfica row | OneFootball

Brazil’s so-called Vinícius Law, aimed at tackling racism in sporting venues, is moving again after being stalled since August 2025. Last Tuesday at Estádio da Luz, Vinícius Júnior accused Gianluca Prestianni of a racist insult during Benfica v Real Madrid, an episode said to have provided the push.

Federal deputy Sâmia Bomfim has filed an urgent request to bring the bill to a vote. According to UOL, she has already secured 400 parliamentary signatures backing rapid approval, and if endorsed the proposal could go straight to a plenary vote in Brazil.

The measure was approved by Rio de Janeiro’s state assembly in June 2023. It lets spectators report racist behaviour to stadium authorities, with complaints immediately relayed to event organisers and the match officials.

Key actions include mandatory anti-racism education before and during matches, and training for players, referees, coaches and staff to recognise and respond to discrimination. Matches could be abandoned if abuse persists or occurs collectively.

The project was drawn up after incidents at Mestalla in Valencia on 21 May 2023, when Vinícius Júnior identified an abusive supporter and was sent off, a decision later overturned.

Benfica are preparing to face Real Madrid on Wednesday, 25 February, at the Bernabéu in Madrid, with the aim of beating the Spanish side and reaching the Champions League last 16.

Source: Glorioso 1904