Former France international Lilian Thuram has launched a blistering attack on legendary coach José Mourinho, accusing him of showing “white narcissism” and attempting to shift blame onto Vinícius Júnior over racist abuse, according to an interview published by L’Équipe.
Thuram, one of football’s most outspoken anti-racism voices, condemned Mourinho’s stance on racism incidents involving Vinicius, insisting the abuse suffered by the Brazilian star was solely due to “the color of his skin” and not his conduct on the pitch.
“Mourinho is a great coach with an exceptional career,” Thuram said. “He has worked with many black players in his life and that doesn’t stop him from doubting the veracity of a racist act.”
The 1998 World Cup winner questioned Mourinho’s authority to judge how Vinicius reacts to racist abuse.
“But who are you, Mr. Mourinho, to allow yourself to decide what Vinicius Junior has the right to do or not?” Thuram said. “There is a feeling of superiority and white narcissism in his words.”
Thuram also referenced Kylian Mbappé, claiming the French superstar had also heard racist insults directed at Vinicius, dismissing any suggestion the allegations were fabricated.
“When Mourinho tries to make us believe that Vinicius Junior is responsible for the racism he suffers, it’s pathetic,” Thuram added. “Through this analysis, he becomes a petty person, a petty man.”
The controversy stems from Mourinho’s recent comments in which he suggested that reactions and behavior can sometimes influence situations surrounding crowd hostility — remarks widely interpreted by critics as downplaying racist abuse.
Vinicius, who plays for Real Madrid CF, has been at the center of multiple racism incidents in Spain, sparking global outrage and renewed calls for stronger action against discrimination in football.
Thuram’s explosive remarks are the latest escalation in the ongoing debate, highlighting deep divisions within football over how racism is understood, addressed, and confronted at the highest level of the game.
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