Real Madrid Provide Formal Evidence to UEFA in Vinicius Jr Racial Abuse Case Involving Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni

Real Madrid have formally provided UEFA with what they described as all available evidence concerning the alleged racist abuse directed at Vinícius Júnior during Tuesday’s UEFA Champions League 2025-26 fixture in Lisbon. The submission follows a formal investigation opened by European football’s governing body into the conduct of SL Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni. 'Racists are cowards', Vinicius Junior Addresses Alleged Racist Abuse Following Real Madrid vs Benfica UEFA Champions League 2025-26 Match.

Vinicius Jr's Incident Involving Gianluca Prestianni

The controversy erupted during the first leg of the Champions League knockout round play-off at the Estádio da Luz on 17 February. Shortly after Vinícius scored the only goal of the match in the 50th minute, he reported to referee François Letexier that he had been subjected to a racist slur by Prestianni.

The allegation triggered UEFA's anti-racism protocol, resulting in a 10-minute suspension of play. Television footage captured Prestianni speaking to the Brazilian international while covering his mouth with his jersey—a detail Vinícius later highlighted on social media, labelling his accusers as cowards.

Club Statement and Evidence

In a statement released on Thursday, 19 February, Real Madrid confirmed their active cooperation with the UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector. The club stated they had provided all necessary documentation and footage to assist the inquiry into what they termed "unacceptable episodes of racism".

"Our club will continue working, in collaboration with all institutions, to eradicate racism, violence, and hate in sports and society," the statement read. The Spanish giants also expressed gratitude for the global support shown to Vinícius, who has been a frequent target of discriminatory abuse throughout his career.

Counter-Claims and Defence

SL Benfica and Prestianni have strongly denied the accusations. The Portuguese club issued a statement backing their player, claiming he is the victim of a defamation campaign and asserting that the Real Madrid players could not have heard the exchange due to the distance between them.

The incident was further complicated by the actions of Benfica head coach José Mourinho, who was sent off for dissent during the match. Mourinho later faced criticism for suggesting that such incidents always happen in matches involving Vinícius, a comment described by anti-discrimination groups as gaslighting.

Potential Sanctions

If found guilty of discriminatory conduct, Prestianni faces a minimum 10-match suspension under UEFA regulations. Benfica could also face financial penalties or partial stadium closures for the second leg and future European fixtures. The return leg is scheduled to take place at the Santiago Bernabéu next Wednesday.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 20, 2026 12:50 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).