Kylian Mbappe's perception among Brazilian fans has transformed significantly in recent days, following his vocal support for fellow Real Madrid player Vinicius Junior amidst allegations of racial insults directed at Vinicius during a UEFA Champions League match against Benfica. Reports from Brazilian media indicate that Mbappe confirmed Vinicius's claims in an interview, stating that he witnessed the incident on the field, thereby adding weight to the latter's narrative and illustrating Mbappe's commitment to standing against racism.

Comments made by Brazilian journalist Tatiana Mantovani highlighted that Mbappe articulated his thoughts clearly, reinforcing Vinicius's credibility and making it challenging for others to dispute his account. Furthermore, during the interview, Mbappe employed phrases in Portuguese, which many interpreted as an effort to connect more deeply with Brazilian fans. This act of solidarity was further solidified when Mbappe echoed his support through social media, reiterating his commitment to combating racism in football.

The evolving image of Mbappe in Brazil marks a notable shift from being viewed unfavorably to now earning admiration, especially as he actively engages in issues of social justice related to athletes. Journalist Gustavo Hoffman noted that Mbappe previously struggled with his reputation in Brazil, but his recent actions have significantly improved his standing among fans, showcasing the powerful role athletes can play in addressing societal issues, including racism.