Shocking news in the football world: Has Vinicius been replaced?

A bizarre conspiracy theory has circulated on social media claiming that Real Madrid and Brazil national team forward Vinicius Junior was kidnapped and replaced by his lookalike.

TodayPress TV reports, citing Marca, that conspiracy theorists are convinced that the footballer seen at the Brazil national team camp ahead of the match against Australia is not the real Vinicius.

According to this version, which has gained popularity in Brazil, Vinicius mysteriously disappeared after the 2026 FIFA World Cup and a lookalike was allegedly hired in his place to fulfil advertising contracts. Internet users claim that the Vinicius currently playing for the national team does not have the tattoos on his thigh that can be seen in images of him at Real Madrid.

The footballer’s decision to grow a beard and drastically change his appearance is also cited as evidence of the alleged replacement. The bizarre claims accuse the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the Rothschild dynasty and global “elites” of being behind Vinicius’ alleged kidnapping. The footballer’s close circle and Real Madrid, meanwhile, have not responded to the rumours.

Namiq HUN