Real Madrid’s Champions League knockout play-off clash against Benfica was temporarily halted on Tuesday night after Vinicius Jr alleged he was subjected to a racist comment during the match.
The incident occurred shortly after the Brazilian forward gave Real Madrid a 1-0 lead. Following his goal, Vinicius celebrated in front of Benfica supporters and was shown a yellow card. Moments later, Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni approached him and appeared to speak while covering his mouth with his shirt.
Vinicius immediately reported the matter to referee François Letexier, who activated FIFA’s anti-racism protocol by crossing his arms in front of his chest and suspending the game. The match was paused for approximately 10 minutes as discussions took place between players, coaching staff and match officials.
Play eventually resumed, with Real Madrid holding on to secure a 1-0 victory. However, tensions remained high, and there was a further brief delay late in stoppage time when objects were thrown from the stands as Vinicius prepared to take a corner kick.
In a post on Instagram after the match, Vinicius expressed frustration over the incident. “Racists are, above all, cowards,” he wrote, adding that he did not understand why he was booked for celebrating his goal. He also criticised what he described as an ineffective application of the anti-racism protocol.
Prestianni later denied making any racist remark, stating on social media that his words had been misunderstood. Benfica also shared footage of the moment, suggesting that players from Real Madrid could not have clearly heard the exchange.
UEFA confirmed that reports of the incident are under review but declined to provide further details.
Benfica coach Jose Mourinho was seen speaking with a visibly upset Vinicius during the stoppage. After the match, Mourinho suggested the forward’s celebration may have provoked the reaction but insisted he was not taking sides. His comments drew criticism from pundits, including former Real Madrid midfielder Clarence Seedorf, who said racial abuse should never be justified under any circumstances.
Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold described the situation as “a disgrace to football,” stressing that there is no place for racism in the sport or society. Head coach Alvaro Arbeloa also voiced support for Vinicius and reiterated the need for football authorities to continue combating racism.
Vinicius has previously spoken about repeated instances of racist abuse during his career. In recent years, several individuals in Spain have been convicted and sentenced for racially abusing the forward during league matches.
UEFA’s review of the latest incident is ongoing.
