Real Madrid provides evidence to UEFA about racism suffered by Vinicius Jr against Benfica

Real Madrid announced this Thursday (19) that it provided Uefa with all available evidence related to the incidents of racism that occurred during the match against Benfica, on Tuesday (17), by Liga of Campeões. The Spanish club highlighted its active cooperation with the investigation opened by the European entity. The episode involved accusations made by Brazilian striker Vinicius Jr against Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni, from the Portuguese team.

The match took place at Estádio of Luz, at Lisboa, and ended with a 1-0 victory for Real Madrid, a goal scored by Vinicius Jr in the second half. Após celebrating the goal, the Brazilian reported to the French referee François Letexier that Prestianni had called him “mono”. The referee activated the anti-racism protocol, which led to the game being stopped for around ten minutes.

During the interruption, there were discussions between players from both teams and members of the technical committees. Tension persisted until the end of the match, with reports of hostility directed towards Vinicius Jr and his teammates. The incident marked another chapter in the allegations of discrimination faced by the Brazilian player in European competitions.

Official note from Real Madrid

The club issued an official statement confirming the sending of the evidence. The text reinforces that Real Madrid actively collaborated with the investigation initiated by Uefa. The entity opened disciplinary proceedings to analyze the alleged discriminatory behavior.

Real Madrid regretted the episodes that occurred and reaffirmed its commitment to the fight against racism, violence and hatred in sport. The club expressed gratitude for the support received by Vinicius Jr from the entire football community.

The note highlights that the club will continue to work in partnership with institutions to eradicate these practices. The focus remains on full cooperation with the competent authorities.

Details of the Uefa investigation

Uefa appointed an ethics and discipline inspector to conduct the analysis of the case. The process includes collecting statements from players involved, such as Vinicius Jr and Gianluca Prestianni, as well as witnesses present on the field.

The entity will evaluate evidence, including images and reports from the arbitration summary. Mais progress information will be released as the investigation progresses.

The anti-racism protocol was applied in accordance with the rules in force at the competition. The stoppage allowed the initial verification of the complaint before resuming the game.

Context of the episode in the game

Vinicius Jr’s goal came five minutes into the second half, with a right shot after a well-worked play. The celebration close to the fans provoked reactions and led to the yellow card given to the Brazilian.

Kylian Mbappé, a teammate, stated that he heard Prestianni repeat the offense multiple times during the match. The incident occurred in the middle of an intense duel for the Liga Campeões playoffs.

Benfica issued statements defending its player and expressing willingness to collaborate with Uefa. The investigation seeks to clarify the facts based on concrete evidence.

Immediate repercussion

The case gained immediate attention after the match ended. Vinicius Jr used social media to comment on the episode, classifying the attackers as cowards who act in hiding.

Support for Vinicius Jr came from several figures in world football. The episode reignites discussions about the effectiveness of measures against discrimination in international competitions.

Real Madrid maintains constant contact with Uefa to monitor developments. The expectation is for decisions that reinforce punishments in proven cases of racism.

Ongoing club positioning

Real Madrid reiterates its firm stance against any form of discrimination. Sending the evidence represents a concrete step in cooperation with the regulatory entity.

The club values ​​Vinicius Jr’s role in the squad and recognizes the unanimous support received by the player. The institution remains dedicated to promoting an environment of respect in football.

The Uefa investigation continues with a detailed analysis of the evidence presented. The outcome will depend on the complete verification of the facts reported.