Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior has been handed a four-match La Liga suspension following his controversial red card against Villarreal, ruling him out of the first El Clasico of the 2026–27 season against Barcelona.
The Brazilian winger was punished for pulling an opponent’s hair and subsequently protesting against the referee. Real Madrid appealed the decision, but the Spanish Football Federation’s Appeals Committee upheld the suspension on October 16.
Why Has Vinicius Junior Been Banned for Four Matches?
The incident occurred during Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Villarreal on October 10. Vinicius came off the bench in the second half and thought he had doubled Madrid’s lead. However, a VAR review revealed that he had pulled Villarreal defender Nathan Saliba’s hair during the build-up to the goal.
The referee disallowed the goal and showed Vinicius a straight red card. The Spanish Football Federation’s disciplinary committee imposed a two-match suspension for violent conduct when the ball was not being contested, followed by another two matches for his aggressive protests towards the officials after the dismissal. Real Madrid challenged the punishment, arguing against its severity, but the appeal was rejected, leaving the four-match ban intact.
Which Matches Will Vinicius Jr Miss?
The suspension applies to domestic league fixtures, meaning Vinicius cannot feature in Real Madrid’s next four La Liga matches. His absence covers the following games:
- Sevilla: October 18 – missed.
- Barcelona: October 25 – El Clasico at Camp Nou.
- Racing Santander: November 1 – away fixture.
- Valencia: November 7 – away fixture at Mestalla.
The most significant setback for Real Madrid is undoubtedly his absence against Barcelona. With the El Clasico carrying major implications for the title race, manager Jose Mourinho will have to find an alternative attacking solution without one of his most dangerous forwards.
When Will Vinicius Junior Return?
Vinicius remains eligible to play in the UEFA Champions League because his suspension applies only to Spanish domestic league matches. His expected return to La Liga action is November 22, when Real Madrid are scheduled to face Celta Vigo following the November international break.
Story first published: Monday, October 19, 2026, 10:34 [IST]
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