Tullis-Joyce condemns alleged racial abuse against Vinicius Jr.

Manchester United goalkeeper speaks out against incident during Champions League match

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Manchester United and U.S. women's national team goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce condemned the alleged racial abuse toward Real Madrid and Brazilian winger Vinicius Jr. during a Champions League match against Benfica, calling the incident 'shameful' and advocating for deeper reflection on how to protect players.

Why it matters

Incidents of racial abuse against players in high-profile soccer matches continue to be an ongoing issue that the sport has struggled to address, raising concerns about the lack of progress in creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for players of color.

The details

Vinicius Jr. scored the match-winning goal for Real Madrid and celebrated by dancing in front of the Benfica crowd, which allegedly prompted racial abuse from Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni. Referee Francois Letexier initiated FIFA's three-step protocol to address the incident, which lasted about 10 minutes and involved captains from both sides. Benfica fans booed Real Madrid after play resumed, and some threw objects onto the pitch.

  • The incident occurred during a Champions League match on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • UEFA has since opened an investigation into the racial abuse allegations, which is likely to take weeks to complete.

The players

Phallon Tullis-Joyce

A 29-year-old Manchester United and U.S. women's national team goalkeeper who spoke out against the alleged racial abuse toward Vinicius Jr.

Vinicius Jr.

A Brazilian winger for Real Madrid who was the target of the alleged racial abuse from Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni.

Gianluca Prestianni

An Argentinian winger for Benfica who was seen covering his mouth and appearing to communicate with Vinicius Jr., leading to allegations of racial abuse.

Francois Letexier

The referee who initiated FIFA's three-step protocol to address the alleged racial abuse incident during the Champions League match.

Kylian Mbappé

The French striker for Real Madrid who commented on the incident, saying the alleged perpetrator 'doesn't deserve to play anymore in the Champions League.'

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What they’re saying

“I think it's very shameful that situations like that are continuing to happen.”

— Phallon Tullis-Joyce, Manchester United goalkeeper (nytimes.com)

“We can't accept that there's a player who plays in the best football competition in Europe and who behaves like that. He doesn't deserve to play anymore in the Champions League. That's my opinion, but let's see what happens.”

— Kylian Mbappé (nytimes.com)

What’s next

UEFA's investigation into the racial abuse allegations is likely to take weeks to complete, and the outcome could determine whether Prestianni is available for the second leg of the playoff match between Benfica and Real Madrid next Wednesday in Madrid.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing challenge of addressing racial abuse in soccer, and the need for stronger action and accountability from clubs, leagues, and governing bodies to protect players and create a more inclusive environment in the sport.