Real Madrid lose Vinícius for the Clásico after rejected CAS appeal

Real Madrid has suffered a second setback: the appeal against the four‑match suspension of Vinícius Júnior was rejected, meaning he will miss the upcoming Clásico against Barcelona. The decision came on Friday, shortly after the Brazilian received a red card on Saturday in the match against Villarreal.

Red card and immediate consequences

Vinícius was sent off in the second half of the Real‑Villarreal match after he pulled opponent Nathan Saliba's hair. The referee immediately showed a red card and the Spanish football federation imposed a four‑match suspension.

The red card came at the moment Vinícius was about to score to make the score 2‑0, but the ball went over the line. The sanction means he will miss the fixtures against Sevilla, Barcelona, Racing Santander and Valencia.

Crisis between Real Madrid and LaLiga intensifies after Vinícius ban

Follow‑up via the CAS

Real Madrid appealed to the international sports tribunal (CAS), but the panel rejected the request. As a result, the four‑match suspension remains intact.

Despite the rejection, Vinícius is still allowed to play in the Champions League matches against RB Leipzig and AEK Athens, until he becomes available again for LaLiga after the international break in November.

Coach José Mourinho cancelled the press conference after the Villarreal match and the club channel issued a fierce tirade against the refereeing, underscoring the discontent within Real Madrid.