Real Madrid has submitted all available evidence to UEFA regarding an alleged racist incident involving Vinícius Júnior during Tuesday’s Champions League match against Benfica. The incident occurred during the first leg of the playoff round, as Real Madrid seeks to advance to the quarterfinals of the prestigious European tournament.
The Spanish club announced on Thursday, February 19, 2026, that it has been actively cooperating with UEFA’s investigation into the events that unfolded in Lisbon. The investigation was launched following accusations that Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni directed a racist insult toward Vinícius Júnior after the Brazilian scored the game’s only goal.
“Real Madrid informs that today it provided UEFA with all available evidence regarding the incidents that occurred last Tuesday, February 17, in the Champions League match that our team played in Lisbon against Benfica,” a club statement read. “We have actively collaborated with the investigation opened by UEFA following the unacceptable episodes of racism experienced during that match.”
The club expressed gratitude for the widespread support Vinícius Júnior has received from the global football community. “Real Madrid appreciates the unanimous support, backing, and affection that our player Vinicius Jr. Has received from all areas of the global football community,” the statement continued.
Real Madrid affirmed its commitment to working with all institutions to combat racism, violence, and hatred in sports and society. “Real Madrid will continue working, in collaboration with all institutions, to eradicate racism, violence and hatred in sport and in society.”
