Real Madrid have formally submitted comprehensive evidence to UEFA as European football's governing body launches a disciplinary investigation into allegations of racial abuse made by their star forward Vinicius Junior. The incident occurred during Tuesday's Champions League knockout round play-off match against Benfica in Lisbon.
Formal Complaint and Evidence Submission
In an official statement released on Thursday, Real Madrid confirmed their full cooperation with UEFA's investigation. "Real Madrid CF announces that it has today provided UEFA with all available evidence regarding the incidents that occurred on Tuesday, February 17, during the Champions League match that our team played in Lisbon against SL Benfica," the club declared.
The Spanish giants emphasized their commitment to addressing discrimination in football, stating: "Our club has actively co-operated with the investigation opened by UEFA following the unacceptable episodes of racism experienced during that match."
Match Incident Details
Vinicius Junior claims he was racially abused by Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni during the high-stakes European encounter. The Brazilian international reported the alleged abuse to match referee Francois Letexier during the game, which was temporarily halted for ten minutes in accordance with UEFA's anti-racism protocols.
Adding to the controversy, Vinicius received a yellow card for his goal celebration shortly after reporting the incident. Following the match, the forward took to Instagram to express his frustration, writing in Portuguese: "Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts in their mouths to demonstrate how weak they are."
Denials and Counter-Allegations
Gianluca Prestianni has vehemently denied making any racist comments toward Vinicius through his own Instagram account. His club, Benfica, has supported their player, criticizing what they described as a "defamation campaign" against the winger.
The situation has been further complicated by comments from Benfica coach Jose Mourinho, who faced criticism from anti-discrimination charity Kick It Out for what they termed "gaslighting" remarks. Mourinho told Amazon Prime: "I told (Vinicius), when you score a goal like that you just celebrate and walk back. They told me different things. But I don't believe in one or another. I want to be an independent."
Institutional Response and Support
Real Madrid expressed appreciation for the widespread support shown to their player, stating: "Real Madrid is grateful for the unanimous support and affection that our player Vinicius Jr. has received from all sectors of the global football community."
The club reinforced their commitment to combating discrimination, adding: "Real Madrid will continue working, in collaboration with all institutions, to eradicate racism, violence and hatred in sport and in society."
UEFA confirmed on Wednesday that it had officially launched a disciplinary investigation into the events, marking another chapter in European football's ongoing battle against racism in stadiums. The governing body will now review the evidence submitted by Real Madrid as part of their formal proceedings.
