Vinicius Jr to miss El Clasico after four-match LaLiga ban

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr will miss the Oct. 25 El Clasico against Barcelona after the Spanish Football Federation’s disciplinary committee upheld a four-match suspension. The ruling follows a straight red card issued during Real Madrid’s 1-0 win over Villarreal on Oct. 10.

A VAR review identified a hair-pulling incident involving opponent Nathan Saliba, resulting in a two-match ban for the foul and an additional two-match penalty for subsequent protests toward the referee. The suspension rules the forward out of league fixtures against Sevilla, Barcelona, Racing Santander, and Valencia.

Vinicius disputed the punishment following Real Madrid’s 4-3 victory over AS Roma. "I don’t recall a player ever receiving a four-match suspension," he said. The Brazilian winger maintained that the hair-pulling incident was unintentional and denied using offensive language toward the official.

He further questioned the transparency of the disciplinary process, arguing that the refereeing body had not adequately informed players regarding rule interpretations. Despite his objections, the disciplinary committee rejected the club's appeal.

Real Madrid currently trails Barcelona by six points in the LaLiga standings. The forward's absence for the upcoming match against the league leaders represents a significant tactical challenge for the club.