In the wake of recent high-profile racism allegations in football, most recently and famously the incident involving Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr during a Champions League match against Benfica, Chelsea head coach Liam Rosenior has delivered a powerful message.
Rosenior has made it clear that anyone in the sport, player, coach, or staff, found guilty of racism should face a lifetime ban and have no place in the game. The Chelsea manager has shown zero tolerance and stronger accountability to overcome discrimination in football.
Chelsea boss Rosenior demands lifetime bans for racists amid Vinicius-Prestianni controversy
During his recent media appearance, Rosenior said:
"If any player, any coach or any manager is found guilty of racism, they shouldn't be in the game. It's as simple as that.”
The Blues boss continued:
“It's upsetting. Always, there needs to be context to it. What I will say, you can see any form of racism in society, not just football, is unacceptable.”
The controversy stems from the UCL knockout playoff first leg on February 17, 2026, when the Los Blancos defeated Benfica 1-0 at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon.
The match was halted for around 10 minutes in the second half after Real Madrid star Vinícius Jr netted the winning goal before accusing Benfica's Argentine winger Gianluca Prestianni of directing racial abuse toward him. The incident is under investigation by UEFA.
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