In the recent game between Valencia and Real Madrid, the Royal Spanish Football Federation published the exchange between referee Cesar Soto Grado and the VAR officials regarding the controversial red card for Vinicius Jr.

The VAR officials first alerted Grado to Vinicius’ possible violent behavior. They suggested the referee review the footage to determine whether the Brazilian had committed an act that merited a red card.

The VAR referee gave the instruction, emphasizing that the incident should be reviewed at both reduced and normal speeds to better understand the impact.

“Cesar, I recommend that you use the video to assess possible violent behavior, as I have already told you. There is the impact, first at 50% and then at normal speed,” he said.

Reaction of the referee

After reviewing the footage, Soto Grado confirmed his decision. He noted that the ball was stationary at the time of the incident and that Vinicius had struck the Valencia goalkeeper in the face with his arms.

The referee then clarified that the action warranted a red card, referring to Vinicius as “number 7”.

“Okay, I’ll give him a red card. The ball is standing still, right? Because he hit the goalkeeper in the face with his arms. Number 7, red card.” he said.

Vinicius was visibly upset by the decision, which led to tension on the pitch. His frustration was so great that his teammates had to intervene and physically escort him off the field.

The incident occurred during a break in the game when Vinicius, who had complained, was approached by Valencia goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski.

The confrontation escalated when Vinicius lashed out, hitting the goalkeeper in the face with both hands. Dimitrievski collapsed to the ground, prompting the VAR review.