On the set of CBS SportsThierry Henry delivered a vibrant plea in favor of the Brazilian, while providing unfailing support for Kylian Mbappé’s position. The former Blues striker, himself a victim of racism during his career, praised the courage of his compatriot who, according to him, was right to directly point out the individual responsibility of the Benfica player.
Thierry Henry delivered a vibrant plea in favor of the Brazilian
Thierry Henry wanted to forcefully reframe the debate. For him, it is not a question of attacking the Benfica club, Portugal or coach José Mourinho, but of isolating Prestianni’s behavior. “I’m not a Real Madrid fan, but I’m a madridista tonight,” he said, recalling that the fight against racism goes far beyond sporting rivalries. He castigated those who try to minimize the incident by criticizing the celebrations or Vinícius’ temperament, recalling that nothing justifies being called a “monkey”.
The former Blues striker praised the courage of his compatriot
“Now Kylian mentions the word “mono”, which can be translated as monkey. I’ve been called a monkey before, it’s not nice at all.”Henry recalled about his own experience with racism. “I’ve said it before, I can understand. But now we know what happened. If you ask me my opinion, as a black person, yes, I find it horrible but we already know that (…) There are a lot of impostors in this sport. Let’s see what they will do. »
“ I don’t like Real Madrid, but I’m a madridista tonight.”continued the one who played at FC Barcelona. “I don’t care what jersey Vinicius wears. I don’t want to see that. And I’ve heard some people say that this happens to him all the time. Who cares! Why are you trying to change the subject or situation? Let’s get back to the subject. What was said? Vinicius was said to be an ape. What are we talking about again? What should we do? And on top of that, he can’t celebrate? Where are we, what are we talking about? »
The former Espoirs coach also revealed having received a personal message from Kylian Mbappé after the meeting. Henry insisted on a crucial point: the gesture of Prestianni, who covered his mouth with his jersey when speaking, is for him an admission of guilt. “Why did you cover your mouth?” “, he asked, denouncing the presence of too many “imposters” in football who turn a blind eye to these abuses.
While UEFA examines François Letexier’s report, global media pressure, carried by legends like Henry, places the European body face to face with its responsibilities. The message is clear: the world of football will no longer accept that the anti-racism protocol remains a simple formality without concrete disciplinary consequences.
