UEFA have launched an investigation into Vinicius Junior's claims that he was racially abused by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni. Real Madrid's 1-0 win over Benfica was suspended for 10 minutes on Tuesday night after Vinicius reported the alleged abuse.
Vinicius put Real 1-0 up in the 50th minute before being booked for his celebrations in front of the Benfica supporters. As the players got ready to kick off once more, the Brazilian forward ran towards referee Francois Letexier to report that Prestianni had racially abused him.
Prestianni was seen covering his mouth with his shirt before directing something towards his opponent. The Argentina winger has since claimed that the Real Madrid star "misinterpreted" what he said.
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UEFA said in a statement: "A UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to investigate allegations of discriminatory behaviour during the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026 Knock-out Play-off between Club Benfica and Real Madrid CF on 17 February 2026. Further information regarding this matter will be made available in due course."
Vinicius led his teammates off the pitch after the incident and later posted a statement on social media which read: "Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to put their shirts over their mouths to demonstrate how weak they are. But they have the protection of others who, theoretically, have the obligation to punish them.
"Nothing that happened here is new in my life or my family's. I received a yellow card for celebrating a goal. I still don't understand why. On the other hand, it was just a poorly executed protocol that served no purpose. I don't like appearing in situations like this, especially after a great victory when the headlines have to be about Real Madrid, but it's necessary."
Prestianni also posted on social media, writing: "I want to clarify that at no time did I direct racist insults at the player Vinicius Junior, who unfortunately misinterpreted what he thought he heard. I have never been racist and I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players." Benfica shared it along with the comment: "Together, by your side."
