Hideous form of racism – Raphinha accused Disneyland

Barcelona winger Raphinha has launched a furious attack on Disneyland Paris, claiming his young son was subjected to racism after being snubbed by a mascot.

The Brazil international, currently away on national team duty, took to Instagram to vent his frustration when videos appeared to show his two-year-old son, Gael, being overlooked while other children received warm embraces.

In the clips posted on his story, several youngsters are seen receiving hugs from the character, while Gael lingers nearby, gesturing as though he too wanted to join in. At one stage, an adult even carried him closer in an effort to draw the mascot’s attention, but still, no acknowledgment came.

Outraged, Raphinha accused the staff of shameful behaviour. “Your employees are disgraceful,” he wrote. “You shouldn't treat people like this, especially a CHILD. You're supposed to make children happy, not ignore a child. I prefer to say ‘ignore’, rather than anything else. You're a disgrace.”

He went further, alleging that Gael had been ignored because of his race. “I understand the fatigue of those who work with this, but why did all the white children get hugs and not my son?” he said. “I hate you, Disneyland. He just wanted a hello and a hug. Lucky for you, he doesn't get it. That employee is s**y.”

Disneyland Paris has yet to release a statement, though Daily Mail Sport confirmed it has reached out for comment.

The incident occurred while Raphinha was thousands of miles away, having started Brazil’s 3-0 World Cup qualifying win over Chile at the Maracana. The 28-year-old is also expected to feature against Bolivia in El Alto on Wednesday before returning to Barcelona ahead of their clash with Valencia.

Raphinha has previously spoken candidly about the racism he has endured during his career, making the alleged treatment of his son all the more personal.