European football’s governing body, UEFA, has formally launched an investigation into allegations of racial abuse directed at Real Madrid’s Brazilian star, Vinícius Júnior. The organisation confirmed on Friday that an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to lead the inquiry following a volatile Champions League encounter against Benfica.
The incident occurred on Tuesday, 17 February, during Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory at the Estádio da Luz. Shortly after scoring the decisive goal in the second half, Vinícius Júnior approached the referee, claiming he had been subjected to a racial slur. In a powerful show of solidarity, the Real Madrid squad walked off the pitch, leading to an 11-minute suspension of play as officials attempted to restore order.
The Accusations and the Evidence
The focal point of the investigation is Benfica’s Argentine winger, Gianluca Prestianni. Television footage from the match captures Prestianni covering his mouth with his jersey while speaking to Vinícius, a gesture often used by players to hide their words from lip-readers.
Following the match, Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé offered a damning testimony, alleging that Prestianni used a specific racial epithet—calling Vinícius a “monkey”—no fewer than five times. Vinícius, who has unfortunately become a symbol of the fight against racism in football after enduring years of abuse in Spain, released a poignant statement on social media, simply stating:
“Racists are, above all, cowards.”
Potential Repercussions and Standing Orders
UEFA’s disciplinary framework regarding racism is stringent. If the Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector finds sufficient evidence of “insulting or discriminatory conduct,” the penalties for the individual and the club could be severe.
| Potential Sanction | Regulatory Basis | Description |
| Player Suspension | Article 14 (UEFA) | A minimum ban of 10 matches for racist behaviour. |
| Club Fine | Disciplinary Code | Significant financial penalties for failing to control players/fans. |
| Stadium Closure | UEFA Safety Regs | Partial or full closure of the Estádio da Luz for future ties. |
| Educational Mandate | Reform Policy | Mandatory participation in anti-discrimination workshops. |
Benfica’s Defence and the Road Ahead
Despite the accusations, Gianluca Prestianni has vehemently denied the claims, suggesting that his words were “misinterpreted” by Vinícius. He has countered the allegations by accusing the Real Madrid players of provocative behaviour during the match.
Benfica has stood firmly behind their player, releasing a brief but pointed statement on social media: “Together by your side.” This stance sets the stage for a contentious legal battle within UEFA’s disciplinary chambers.
Under current UEFA protocols, the inspector will review all available broadcast footage, referee reports, and witness statements—including those from Mbappé and other teammates—before reaching a verdict. As football continues to grapple with its “racism problem,” the outcome of this case is expected to serve as a significant precedent for player-to-player conduct on the pitch.