Real Madrid Player Alleges Racist Abuse, Match Halted in Lisbon

A Champions League match was stopped for 10 minutes because Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior said he heard racist words. This is the second time this season he has reported such abuse.
By Newsroom | Football, Europe |

A UEFA Champions League match between Real Madrid and Benfica was stopped for approximately 10 minutes after Real Madrid player Vinícius Júnior claimed he was subjected to racist abuse by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni. The incident occurred in the second half of the match in Lisbon. FIFA's anti-racism protocol was initiated following Vinícius Júnior's complaint to the referee, François Letexier.

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Context of the Incident

The stoppage happened shortly after Vinícius Júnior scored the opening goal for Real Madrid in the 50th minute and proceeded with a celebration in front of the Benfica supporters. Following the celebration, an interaction took place between Vinícius Júnior and Gianluca Prestianni.

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  • Player Accounts: Vinícius Júnior informed the referee that Prestianni had used racist language towards him, with teammate Kylian Mbappé stating he heard the abuse and that Prestianni should be banned from the Champions League. Aurélien Tchouaméni also stated Vinícius Júnior told the team Prestianni called him a "monkey."

  • Referee's Observation: Referee François Letexier reportedly stated he did not hear the alleged comments, noting that in such situations, his actions are limited without direct auditory confirmation.

  • Alleged Abuser's Statement: Gianluca Prestianni has denied the allegations of racist language. Benfica midfielder Leandro Barreiro reported that Prestianni told teammates he had provoked Vinícius Júnior but did not use racist terms. Prestianni also reportedly pointed to Benfica's historical striker Eusebio as evidence the club is not racist.

  • Match Officials' Actions: Both team coaches, Jose Mourinho (Benfica) and Alvaro Arbeloa (Real Madrid), spoke with the players involved. The referee also conferred with the team captains. A Benfica staff member was reportedly sent off during the stoppage.

  • Fan Behavior: Reports indicate that some Benfica fans threw objects at Real Madrid players during Vinícius Júnior's celebration.

Investigations Underway

UEFA has launched an investigation into the alleged racist abuse. A UEFA ethics and disciplinary inspector has been appointed to examine the incident.

Read More: Liverpool vs Nottingham Forest: Key Players Injured and Out for Match on March 2, 2024

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Player Statements and Reactions

Following the match, Vinícius Júnior posted on social media, stating, "Racists are, above all, cowards." Kylian Mbappé expressed strong support for his teammate, suggesting Prestianni should be banned from the Champions League.

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Past Incidents and Broader Context

This event adds to a history of alleged racist abuse directed at Vinícius Júnior. In a previous La Liga game at Valencia's Mestalla Stadium on May 21, 2023, three individuals were found guilty of abusing Vinícius Júnior and received jail sentences and stadium bans. This past ruling is considered a significant step in prosecuting such offenses. Players like former USA international Justin Morrow have highlighted the ongoing struggle against racism in football, emphasizing player fatigue but also the impact of collective action.

Expert Analysis and Contrasting Views

Jose Mourinho, Benfica's coach, suggested that Vinícius Júnior's goal celebration may have provoked the incident, a view that has drawn criticism. He stated his desire to remain independent and await findings before forming a judgment. Contrasting this, some reports indicate that Benfica players also heard the alleged racist remarks.

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Evidence and Observations

  • Player Testimony: Vinícius Júnior's direct accusation to the referee and subsequent comments. Kylian Mbappé's corroborating statement about hearing the abuse. Aurélien Tchouaméni's account of what Vinícius Júnior communicated to the team.

  • Visuals: Prestianni was observed covering his mouth with his shirt while speaking to Vinícius Júnior, an action some interpret as an attempt to conceal his words.

  • Official Actions: The immediate implementation of FIFA's anti-racism protocol, halting the game. UEFA's subsequent opening of an investigation.

  • Denials: Gianluca Prestianni's denial via Instagram and statements reported by teammates.

  • Historical Precedent: The jailing of three fans for abusing Vinícius Júnior in 2023 demonstrates a legal framework for addressing such incidents.

Conclusion and Future Steps

The incident during the Real Madrid vs. Benfica match highlights ongoing concerns about racism in football. While UEFA investigates the claims, the differing accounts from players and officials present a complex situation. The intervention of the referee and the implementation of anti-racism protocols signify an effort to address such occurrences. The case also underscores the impact of player solidarity and the potential for legal recourse against individuals found guilty of racial abuse in sporting events. Further information is expected as UEFA's investigation progresses.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why was the Real Madrid vs. Benfica match stopped on February 17, 2026?
The match was stopped for about 10 minutes because Real Madrid player Vinícius Júnior told the referee he heard racist words from Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni. FIFA's anti-racism rules were used.
Q: What did Vinícius Júnior say happened during the game?
Vinícius Júnior said that Gianluca Prestianni used racist language towards him after he scored a goal. Other Real Madrid players like Kylian Mbappé and Aurélien Tchouaméni said they heard the abuse or what Vinícius Júnior said about it.
Q: Did Gianluca Prestianni admit to using racist words?
No, Gianluca Prestianni has said he did not use racist words. He told his teammates he only tried to annoy Vinícius Júnior.
Q: What is happening now after the incident?
UEFA has started an investigation into the alleged racist abuse. A special inspector will look into what happened.
Q: Has Vinícius Júnior faced racist abuse before?
Yes, this is not the first time. In May 2023, three people were found guilty and given jail time for abusing Vinícius Júnior during a game in Spain.