Real Madrid Fan Ejected for Nazi Salute at Bernabeu on Feb 25, 2026

A fan was removed from the Santiago Bernabéu stadium and is facing expulsion from Real Madrid after allegedly performing a Nazi salute before a Champions League match against Benfica. The incident, captured on television cameras, has led to swift action from the club, underscoring ongoing efforts to address hate speech and extremist gestures in professional sports.

Context of the Incident

The occurrence took place on February 25, 2026, moments before the second leg of the UEFA Champions League tie between Real Madrid and Benfica. Cameras broadcasting the match, which was held at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, captured an individual in the Supporters' Stand (also referred to as the Animation Stand or Fan Stand) appearing to make a Nazi salute. This happened as pre-match preparations, including the unfurling of a "No To Racism" banner, were underway. Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory in this match, advancing to the Round of 16 with a 3-1 aggregate win.

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Evidence of the Gesture and Club Response

Multiple news outlets reported on the incident, citing television footage as the primary evidence.

• Visual Capture: Television cameras clearly recorded an individual in the stands making what was described as a Nazi salute. Some reports indicate the gesture was performed repeatedly and without apparent attempt to conceal it.

• Club Statement: Real Madrid CF issued a statement condemning the act, emphasizing their stance against violence and hatred. The club announced it had urgently requested the Disciplinary Committee to initiate immediate expulsion proceedings against the member involved. The statement read: "Real Madrid condemns these types of gestures and expressions that incite violence and hatred in sport and in society."

• Immediate Action: The fan was reportedly removed from the stadium shortly after the gesture was observed. The Metropolitan Police confirmed the fan was convicted of a racially aggravated public order offence.

• Legal Ramifications: The Nazi salute is classified as a hate crime under Spanish law and in many parts of Europe.

Fan Expulsion and Disciplinary Proceedings

Real Madrid's response has been described as swift and decisive, signaling a strong disciplinary approach.

• Expulsion Proceedings: The club has formally initiated a procedure to expel the fan from its membership. This action is being handled by the club's Disciplinary Committee.

• Condemnation of Hate Speech: The club reiterated its strong condemnation of gestures and expressions that promote violence and hatred, aligning with broader efforts by governing bodies to combat racism and extremism in sports.

Broader Context: Racism in Football

This incident occurs within a larger context of increasing scrutiny on racism and discriminatory behavior in football.

• "No To Racism" Campaign: The appearance of a "No To Racism" banner during the pre-match proceedings at the Bernabéu highlights the ongoing efforts to combat such issues.

• Previous Allegations: The match itself was preceded by an investigation by UEFA into allegations that Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni racially abused Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior during the first-leg match. UEFA had suspended Prestianni for one game pending this investigation.

Expert and Official Reactions

While direct expert analysis of this specific incident is limited in the provided data, the actions taken by Real Madrid align with established protocols and expectations from football's governing bodies.

• Club's Firm Stance: Real Madrid's rapid move to expel the fan demonstrates a clear policy against hate-motivated actions within their stadium. This proactive stance is intended to deter future occurrences and uphold the club's image and values.

• Legal Framework: The fact that the gesture is considered a hate crime underscores the serious legal implications for the individual involved, as evidenced by the conviction for a racially aggravated public order offense.

Conclusion and Implications

The incident involving the Real Madrid supporter and the alleged Nazi salute has resulted in immediate disciplinary action by the club and a conviction by the police.

• Fan Banned: The individual is facing expulsion from Real Madrid and has been convicted of a related offense.

• Club's Position: Real Madrid has publicly condemned the gesture and initiated expulsion proceedings, reinforcing its commitment to eradicating hate speech.

• Ongoing Battle: This event highlights the persistent challenge of addressing extremist behavior in sports venues, even amidst visible anti-racism campaigns. The swiftness of the club's response suggests a zero-tolerance policy towards such actions.

Sources Used:

• The New York Times (The Athletic): https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7071098/2026/02/25/real-madrid-benfica-nazi-salute/

• The Indian Express: https://indianexpress.com/article/sports/football/real-madrid-ban-fan-nazi-salute-on-tv-champions-league-10553050/

• The Daily Mail: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-15593321/Real-Madrid-Bernabeu-Nazi-salute-Benfica.html

• Managing Madrid: https://www.managingmadrid.com/latest-news/104498/real-madrid-expel-fan-after-nazi-salute-incident-at-the-bernabeu

• The Evening Standard: https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/real-madrid-fan-nazi-salute-benfica-champions-league-b1272527.html

• Mundo Deportivo: https://www.mundodeportivo.com/en/20260225/1004136240/controversy-at-the-bernabeu-after-real-madrid-fan-s-nazi-salute-is-captured-in-the-stands.html