Benfica-Real Madrid match suspended after Vinicius alleges racist abuse

2026-02-18 - 08:42

Tuesday's UEFA Champions League play-off match between Benfica and Real Madrid at Estadio da Luz was suspended for approximately 10 minutes after Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior alleged he was subjected to racist abuse. The incident occurred shortly after the Brazilian scored in the 50th minute to give the Spanish side a 1-0 lead, with Vinicius receiving a yellow card for his celebration near the corner flag. Protocol Activation and Player Response Following an exchange with Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, Vinicius approached French referee Francois Letexier, who made the crossed-arms gesture signaling UEFA's anti-racism protocol. Vinicius subsequently left the pitch, followed by his Real Madrid teammates, as players and coaching staff from both sides engaged in discussions. Benfica manager Jose Mourinho was observed speaking with Vinicius amid the escalating tensions before play eventually resumed. Ongoing Pattern of Abuse The incident marks another chapter in Vinicius's ongoing experience with racist abuse during matches in Spain and Europe, having been targeted repeatedly in La Liga fixtures. The Brazilian has become a prominent voice against racism in football, with his cases often drawing international attention to persistent discrimination within the sport. UEFA is expected to investigate the incident and may take disciplinary action against Benfica if evidence supports the allegations.