Real Madrid CF have confirmed they have submitted “all available evidence” to UEFA as the governing body investigates racism allegations involving forward Vinícius Júnior.
The Brazil international said he reported racial abuse by a SL Benfica player to referee François Letexier during Tuesday’s Champions League knockout play-off tie in Lisbon. Madrid later identified the player as Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni.
UEFA confirmed on Wednesday, February 19, that a disciplinary investigation had been opened into the incident. In a statement, Real Madrid said they were fully cooperating with the process and had provided all relevant material concerning what they described as unacceptable episodes of racism during the match.
The game was temporarily halted for around 10 minutes in line with UEFA protocol after Vinícius raised the complaint following his goal celebration. Play later resumed, and the forward completed the match.
After the game, Vinícius posted on Instagram, describing racists as “cowards” and criticising what he viewed as an ineffective application of the anti-racism protocol.
Prestianni denied making any racist remark in a social media statement, while Benfica rejected what they called a smear campaign against their player.
Benfica head coach José Mourinho also faced criticism from anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out, which labelled his post-match comments as “gaslighting.” Mourinho said he had heard different accounts from the players involved and did not wish to take sides.
UEFA’s investigation into the matter is ongoing.
