By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
José Luis Chilavert has ignited a major controversy after publicly defending Gianluca Prestianni and accusing Vinícius Júnior of provoking the confrontation at the centre of UEFA’s ongoing discrimination investigation.
Speaking in a radio interview with Radio Rivadavia and reported by Spanish newspaper El País, the former Paraguay captain claimed the Real Madrid star initiated the verbal exchange.
“Vinícius is the first who insults everyone,” Chilavert said, insisting Prestianni had been unfairly targeted in the fallout.
Prestianni, who plays for Benfica, is currently under investigation by UEFA after Vinícius accused him of discriminatory abuse during a heated Champions League fixture. The Argentine winger has reportedly admitted to insulting Vinícius but denied making racist comments.
Chilavert also made additional controversial remarks during the interview, including criticism of modern football’s stance on discrimination and comments referencing Vinícius’ skin colour while arguing his case.
His comments further escalated tensions after he also took aim at Kylian Mbappé, questioning the French star’s public stance on values and discrimination.
The remarks have drawn sharp criticism across football, particularly given Vinícius’ prominent role as one of the sport’s leading voices against racism following multiple abuse incidents in recent years.
UEFA’s investigation into Prestianni remains ongoing, with the governing body expected to determine whether disciplinary action will be taken under its strict anti-discrimination regulations, which carry a minimum 10-match suspension.
Chilavert’s intervention has now added fuel to an already explosive case, deepening divisions and intensifying global scrutiny over discrimination, accountability, and leadership in European football.