Real Madrid provides UEFA with evidence after Vinicius Junior alleges racist abuse by a Benfica player during a Champions League match.
REAL Madrid has submitted all available evidence to UEFA regarding alleged racist abuse directed at forward Vinicius Junior during a Champions League match.
The club’s statement confirmed the submission, describing the incidents during Tuesday’s play-off first leg at Benfica as “unacceptable episodes of racism”.
The match in Lisbon was halted for 10 minutes after Vinicius told the referee that Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni had called him a “monkey” during an on-field confrontation.
The Argentine midfielder denies the allegation, having covered his mouth during the argument which followed Vinicius celebrating a goal by dancing in front of home fans.
UEFA announced it would investigate “allegations of discriminatory behaviour” following the incident.
Real Madrid expressed appreciation for the “unanimous support, backing, and affection” Vinicius has received from the global football community.
The Brazilian star has repeatedly suffered racist abuse since joining the Spanish club in 2018.
Benfica issued a statement backing Prestianni and speaking of a “defamation campaign” against him.
Manager Jose Mourinho has also publicly questioned Vinicius’s goal celebration.
