Vini Jr alleges racial abuse during Real Madrid’s win over Benfica

Vinícius Júnior was allegedly subjected to racist abuse during Real Madrid’s 1–0 victory over Benfica in their UEFA Champions League playoff on Tuesday.

The match was delayed for nine minutes at the start of the second half after Vinicius approached referee François Letexier to report an alleged racist comment during an altercation with Benfica’s Argentine winger Gianluca Prestianni.

Vinicius had put Madrid ahead shortly after the restart with a brilliant individual goal at Lisbon’s Estádio da Luz. He celebrated in front of the home supporters near the corner flag, which sparked tension among Benfica players and fans.

Referee Letexier later cautioned Vinicius for his role in escalating tensions, while some supporters responded by throwing objects towards the Brazilian forward.

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The situation intensified during the stoppage, with Vinicius seen speaking to match officials about an alleged comment made by Prestianni. Letexier subsequently made the anti-racism gesture, crossing his arms in front of his chest, a UEFA signal used to indicate a reported racist incident.

Television replays appeared to show Prestianni covering his mouth before speaking to Vinicius during the confrontation. While the exact words remain unconfirmed, AS reported that Vinicius accused the Benfica player of calling him a “monkey.”

Vinicius briefly left the pitch in protest and sat on Madrid’s bench before returning to the field as the game resumed.

The match saw further disciplinary action, with a member of Benfica’s coaching staff receiving a straight red card. Head coach José Mourinho was also sent off late in the game and will miss the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu due to suspension.

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