Rabat – Real Madrid have handed UEFA all available evidence regarding the incidents in their Champions League match against Benfica on February 17.
The club said it is fully cooperating with UEFA’s investigation after Vinicius Jr. was subjected to racist abuse during the game in Lisbon.
The trouble began in the 51st minute when Vinicius scored the winning goal and celebrated by dancing near the corner flag.
Objects were thrown from the stands, and referee François Letexier asked players to move to the center circle. Vinicius continued his celebration and exchanged words with Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni, who was later accused of directing racist insults at him.
🚨 Wayne Rooney: “Why can’t Vini Jr. celebrate like this? We have seen these celebrations so many times before.” pic.twitter.com/iTMc0kYGGy
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) February 17, 2026
According to Vinicius and witnesses, including Kylian Mbappe, Prestianni repeatedly called him a “monkey.”
The referee activated UEFA’s anti-racism protocol, stopping play for about 10 minutes. Players, coaches, and staff from both sides intervened during tense scenes. Vinicius was booked for his celebration, a decision he later criticized.
Prestianni denied the accusations on social media, saying Vinicius misinterpreted his words and insisting he has never been racist.
He also claimed he received threats from Madrid players. Because Prestianni covered his mouth with his shirt, no clear audio or video evidence has yet confirmed the insults.
Vinicius posted after the match, calling racists “cowards” and criticizing the way the protocol was handled. He said the incident overshadowed Real Madrid’s win and reflected a wider problem he has faced throughout his career.
UEFA has appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to review the referee’s report, witness statements, and any audiovisual evidence. If the allegations are proven, sanctions could include fines, stadium closures, or suspensions of at least 10 matches for the player involved.
Real Madrid expressed gratitude for the support Vinicius has received across football and vowed to continue working with institutions to fight racism, violence, and hatred in sport and society.
The investigation is expected to move quickly, with the second leg against Benfica scheduled for February 25 at the Bernabeu.
Read Also: Alleged Racist Abuse Against Vinicius Overshadows Real Madrid’s Win at Benfica
Madrid’s full statement:
“Real Madrid C. F. announces that today it has provided UEFA with all the available evidence on the incidents that occurred last Tuesday, February 17 in the Champions League match that our team played in Lisbon against SL Benfica.
Our club has actively collaborated with the investigation opened by UEFA after the unacceptable episodes of racism experienced during that match.
Comunicado Oficial.
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) February 19, 2026
Real Madrid is grateful for the unanimous backing, support and affection that our player Vinicius Jr. has received from all areas of world football.
Real Madrid will continue to work, in collaboration with all institutions, to eradicate racism, violence and hatred in sport and in society”.
