Real Madrid have submitted evidence to UEFA supporting forward Vinícius Júnior’s allegation that he was subjected to a racist slur, during Tuesday’s Champions League playoff victory over Benfica.
The Spanish club confirmed that it had provided all available material related to the incident, which allegedly involved Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni.
The first-leg clash in Lisbon, which Real Madrid won 1–0, was halted for 11 minutes early in the second half after Vinícius reported the alleged abuse shortly after scoring the decisive goal.
Prestianni has denied the accusation, insisting the Brazilian “misunderstood what he thinks he heard”, Benfica publicly backed their player. while UEFA has since appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to investigate the matter.
In a statement, Real Madrid said the club appreciates the widespread support shown to Vinícius following the incident and reaffirmed its commitment to combating discrimination.
“Real Madrid will continue to work, in collaboration with all institutions, to eradicate racism, violence and hatred in sport and in society,” the club said.
The two teams are scheduled to meet again for the decisive second leg in Madrid next Wednesday, with the investigation ongoing.