Why Vitinha keeps finishing matches with a blue tongue | OneFootball

Vitinha’s vivid blue tongue has become a fixture of Paris Saint-Germain’s trophy parties, notably after the UEFA Super Cup win over Tottenham on 13 August. L'Équipe notes that the explanation is prosaic, a blue sports drink rather than any mystery.

Each time PSG lift silverware, Vitinha balances the cup on his head, opens wide and a blue-stained tongue appears.

A member of his professional entourage suggested a blue energy drink might be responsible. A later image of him holding Powerade after PSG beat Real Madrid 4-0 on 9 July 2025 in the Club World Cup semi-final led that source to say the matter was settled.

There is precedent. At Paris 2024, Hong Kong foilist Cheung Ka Long, a gold medallist, also showed a blue tongue, and a close associate said he had drunk the Games’ official beverage, Powerade.

Nutritionist Amanda Sanchez, who has advised Arda Güler, says these drinks provide sugars and electrolytes vital for players during matches, but they are not designed for sedentary people.

Some athletes even swill and spit to activate carbohydrate receptors in the mouth, which studies suggest can lift motivation and performance. Vitinha is due to play for Portugal on Wednesday at 19:00 against DR Congo.

Source: L'Équipe