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Brazil release statement amid investigation into Vinicius Jr racism allegations

Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth when speaking to Vinicius Jr
Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth when speaking to Vinicius Jr (AFP/Getty)
  • Uefa is investigating alleged racist abuse against Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr during a Champions League play-off match against Benfica.
  • The incident occurred on Tuesday, leading referee Francois Letexier to activate anti-racism protocols and suspend play for 10 minutes.
  • Vinicius Jr reportedly pointed to Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni, who has vehemently denied making racist comments.
  • The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) has formally urged Uefa and Fifa to rigorously investigate and punish those responsible for the abuse.
  • The Uefa probe is expected to take up to three weeks, meaning Vinicius Jr and Prestianni could face each other again before a resolution.
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