UEFA has launched a formal investigation into allegations of racial abuse directed at Real Madrid forward Vinícius Junior during the Champions League playoff round of 16 first-leg match against Benfica. The European governing body announced the probe following a statement confirming the appointment of an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to examine the incident.
The claims stem from the fixture in Lisbon, where Vinícius alleged that Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni subjected him to repeated racial insults. The complaint is supported by teammate Kylian Mbappé, who stated he heard the derogatory term ‘monkey’ aimed at Vinícius on at least five separate occasions during the game. Prestianni has publicly denied the accusations via social media, asserting that his words were misinterpreted and not intended as racial abuse.
The investigation will evaluate the match reports, available audio and video evidence, and witness testimonies. UEFA’s disciplinary regulations stipulate severe sanctions for racism, including lengthy bans for individuals and potential stadium closures for clubs. The inspector’s findings will be forwarded to the Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body for a final determination.
This case underscores the persistent challenge of racism in European football and UEFA’s mandated zero-tolerance policy. The outcome of this inquiry will be closely observed as a benchmark for the governing body’s commitment to enforcing its anti-racism statutes. A definitive timeline for the investigation’s conclusion has not been provided, but the process is expected to conclude in the coming weeks.
