Real Madrid Presents Proof to UEFA in Vinicius Racism Case
Last update: February 19, 2026
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Club backs Brazilian forward after alleged abuse during Champions League clash at Benfica...
Real Madrid said on Thursday it had provided all available evidence to UEFA in support of Brazilian forward Vinicius Junior’s complaint of racist abuse during this week’s Champions League match at Benfica.
Tuesday’s first leg of the knockout phase playoff tie in Lisbon was halted for 10 minutes after Vinicius told the referee that Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni had called him a monkey during a confrontation.
The Argentine midfielder, who covered his mouth during the exchange after Vinicius celebrated a goal by dancing in front of the home supporters, has denied the allegation.
UEFA announced on Wednesday it would investigate allegations of discriminatory behaviour as the controversy intensified, with several teammates publicly backing Vinicius, who has repeatedly been subjected to racist abuse since joining Real in 2018.
In a statement, Real Madrid said it had submitted all available evidence to UEFA regarding the incidents during the Benfica match, which it described as involving unacceptable episodes of racism.
The club added that it appreciated the unanimous support and affection shown to Vinicius by the global football community.
CBI News reports that Benfica also released a statement on Wednesday expressing support for Prestianni and referring to what it described as a defamation campaign against him, while manager Jose Mourinho questioned Vinicius’s celebration.
