UEFA Investigates Racist Abuse Claim Against Vinicius Junior in Real Madrid vs Benfica Match

UEFA is investigating claims of racist abuse against Vinicius Junior during a Real Madrid vs Benfica match. The game was stopped for 10 minutes. Real Madrid has given UEFA evidence.
By Newsroom | Football, Europe |

An investigation is underway by UEFA following allegations of racist abuse directed at Real Madrid player Vinicius Junior during a Champions League match against Benfica. The incident, which occurred during the first leg of a knockout playoff match in Lisbon, led to a temporary stoppage of play and has drawn widespread attention, with Real Madrid reportedly providing evidence to UEFA.

🚨 Real Madrid hand UEFA evidence of racism against Vinicius - 1

The match, which Real Madrid won 1-0, was paused for approximately 11 minutes after Vinicius Junior reported an alleged racist remark to the referee. This interruption followed his team taking a 1-0 lead in the first half. The confrontation reportedly involved Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni, who is accused of making the remark while covering his mouth.

🚨 Real Madrid hand UEFA evidence of racism against Vinicius - 2

Circumstances of the Incident

During the Champions League playoff match between Benfica and Real Madrid at the Estadio da Luz, Vinicius Junior scored the opening goal. Shortly after his celebration, an altercation occurred with Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni.

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🚨 Real Madrid hand UEFA evidence of racism against Vinicius - 3

  • Match Stoppage: The game was halted for around 10 to 11 minutes, in accordance with UEFA's anti-racism protocol, after Vinicius Junior approached the referee to report the alleged abuse.

  • Accusation: Reports suggest the alleged racist slur used was "mono" (monkey). Vinicius Junior later posted on social media, stating that "racists are, above all, cowards who have to cover their mouths."

  • Involvement of Other Players: Real Madrid player Kylian Mbappé stated that he heard the alleged abuse and indicated that Prestianni used the offensive word multiple times. Other Benfica players reportedly also heard the exchange.

Conflicting Accounts and Denials

While Vinicius Junior and some of his teammates have spoken out about the incident, there are differing perspectives on what occurred and its severity.

🚨 Real Madrid hand UEFA evidence of racism against Vinicius - 4

  • Benfica's Stance: Benfica has reportedly argued that the noise level in the stadium and the distance between players may have made it difficult for the alleged racist abuse to be heard.

  • Prestianni's Denial: Gianluca Prestianni has denied making any racist remark. He was seen covering his mouth during the interaction with Vinicius Junior.

  • Coach's Reaction: Real Madrid's coach, Álvaro Arbeloa, stated that he had no reason not to believe Vinicius Junior's account when asked about the alleged slur. Benfica's coach, Jose Mourinho, indicated that Vinicius Junior expressed a desire not to continue playing at one point.

UEFA's Investigation and Wider Context

UEFA has officially confirmed its investigation into the matter. An ethics and disciplinary inspector has been appointed to examine the allegations.

  • UEFA's Protocol: The game was paused to implement FIFA's anti-racism protocol, underscoring the seriousness with which such incidents are officially treated.

  • History of Abuse: The incident adds to a pattern of alleged racist abuse directed at Vinicius Junior. Reports indicate that he has faced similar incidents in various stadiums. This has led to questions about why he is frequently targeted.

  • Player Support: The incident has garnered support from other prominent football figures, including Kylian Mbappé and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who have called for "justice."

Expert Analysis and Player Reactions

The alleged incident has prompted commentary from various individuals within the football community.

  • Seedorf on Mourinho's Reaction: Clarence Seedorf commented that it was a "mistake to justify racial abuse," in reference to statements made by Jose Mourinho regarding the incident.

  • Mbappé's Testimony: Kylian Mbappé's assertion that he directly heard the racist remarks adds a significant layer to the ongoing investigation.

  • Vinicius's Advocacy: Vinicius Junior has become a prominent voice against racism in football, actively campaigning against abuse he has faced.

Conclusion and Next Steps

UEFA's investigation into the alleged racist abuse of Vinicius Junior is the central action following the match. Real Madrid's submission of evidence to UEFA signals their commitment to pursuing the matter. The investigation will aim to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident involving Gianluca Prestianni and determine any potential disciplinary actions. The differing accounts and denials, coupled with Benfica's defense regarding stadium conditions, present a complex evidentiary challenge. The broader context of ongoing racist abuse against Vinicius Junior is also a critical element that investigators may consider.

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  • Key Findings: Allegations of racist abuse against Vinicius Junior occurred during a UEFA Champions League match. The game was paused, and UEFA has launched an investigation. Real Madrid has provided evidence to UEFA.

  • Points of Contention: Denials from the accused player and Benfica's claims about stadium conditions contrast with direct witness accounts from teammates and Vinicius Junior's own testimony.

  • Implications: The outcome of UEFA's investigation could lead to sanctions and further highlight the persistent issue of racism in football.

Sources

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What happened during the Real Madrid vs Benfica Champions League match?
During the match on February 17, 2026, Real Madrid player Vinicius Junior reported alleged racist abuse from Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni. The game was stopped for about 10 minutes.
Q: What did Vinicius Junior say about the incident?
Vinicius Junior said he heard racist words and later posted that 'racists are, above all, cowards who have to cover their mouths.' Real Madrid has given evidence to UEFA.
Q: What is Benfica's response to the claims?
Benfica has argued that the stadium noise might have made it hard to hear any abuse. Gianluca Prestianni has denied making any racist remarks.
Q: What is UEFA doing about the alleged abuse?
UEFA has confirmed it is investigating the incident. An inspector has been appointed to look into the claims of racist abuse against Vinicius Junior.
Q: Why is this incident important?
This incident adds to a history of alleged racist abuse against Vinicius Junior. UEFA's investigation and potential actions highlight the ongoing fight against racism in football.