UEFA reviewing alleged racist abuse after Vinicius Jr accusation
Tensions flared in Lisbon on Tuesday evening after Vinicius Jr reported an alleged racist remark during Real Madrid’s 1,0 first leg playoff win against Benfica. According to GiveMeSport and reporter Daniel Feliciano, the Brazilian forward alerted the referee shortly after scoring the decisive second half goal.
The complaint led to a stoppage of around 10 minutes while discussions took place on the pitch. Several Real Madrid players later alleged that Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni had directed a racist term at their teammate during the celebrations.
Uefa statement and disciplinary process
Uefa addressed the situation on Wednesday, confirming that it is assessing documentation submitted by the match officials.
"The official reports from the matches played last night are currently being reviewed.
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Where matters are reported, proceedings are opened and should they lead to disciplinary sanctions being imposed, they are announced on the Uefa disciplinary website.
We have no further information to provide you or any further comment to make on this matter at this stage."
The governing body did not clarify whether the alleged remark has been formally included in the referee’s written report. Under Uefa regulations, disciplinary proceedings can only begin if the incident is documented by match officials or supported by sufficient evidence.
Benfica response and Mourinho reaction
Gianluca Prestianni has denied the accusation. Benfica manager Jose Mourinho declined to directly assign blame when questioned after the match, but suggested that Vinicius Jr’s celebrations may have contributed to heightened emotions inside the stadium.
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Following the initial exchange, Vinicius Jr briefly stepped away from the field, accompanied by several Real Madrid teammates, before play eventually resumed.
Broader spotlight on racism in European football
The episode once again places scrutiny on how European football authorities handle allegations of discrimination at the highest level of the game. Vinicius Jr has previously spoken out about racist abuse in domestic and international competitions, and his latest complaint is likely to intensify debate around enforcement, stadium protocols, and player protection.
If the allegation is formally recorded in the referee’s report, Uefa’s disciplinary panel could review video evidence, gather statements, and determine whether sanctions are warranted in line with its anti racism regulations.
Sources: GiveMeSport
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