An ethical and disciplinary investigator has been assigned by UEFA to look into claims that Real Madrid winger, Vinícius Júnior was the target of a racist remark during Tuesday’s Champions League playoff game against Benfica.
Vinícius scored the lone goal in the first leg at the Estádio da Luz, and he got into a fight with Benfica players, particularly Gianluca Prestianni, and accused the Argentine midfielder of racism while celebrating.
Following the referee’s implementation of UEFA’s anti-racism rule, the game was halted for ten minutes.
The 20-year-old attacker may be suspended for up to 10 games if he is found guilty of racial abuse under UEFA’s disciplinary code.
See Also: Benfica Star Denies Racially Abusing Vinícius Jr In Champions League Game
“A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate allegations of discriminatory behaviour during the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026 knockout playoff between Club Benfica and Real Madrid CF on 17 February 2026,” a UEFA statement said as reported by ESPN.
The 20-year-old refuted Vinicius’ allegations on social media, saying the Brazil international “misinterpreted what he thinks he heard.”
Real Madrid forward, Kylian Mbappé said he heard Prestianni call Vinícius “monkey” five times.
Vinicius Appreciates Teammates And Club For Support
According to ESPN, Vinícius is doing well and is appreciative of the help he has received from his teammates and club, especially from Mbappé, who was among the first Madrid players to encourage Vinícius.
Shortly after the alleged incident, Spanish TV Movistar+ cameras caught the French star addressing Prestianni on the field and accusing him of racism.
Speaking to reporters after the game, Mbappé said he “really hurt for Vinícius” while demanded that action be taken against Prestianni.
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