champions league match halted after vinícius júnior reports racist abuse
Lissabon, dinsdag, 17 februari 2026.
A champions league clash between benfica and real madrid was abruptly stopped for ten minutes after vinícius júnior alerted the referee to alleged racist abuse. the brazilian forward pointed toward opposition player gianluca prestianni, prompting real madrid’s entire squad to walk off the pitch in protest. uefa’s anti-racism protocol was activated, halting play at estadio da luz. this incident reignites urgent debate over racism in european club football. the match eventually resumed, but the standoff underscores deep tensions around discrimination in sports. vinícius has previously spoken out against racist behaviour in spain and portugal.
match interrupted after on-field confrontation
The Champions League playoff first leg between Benfica and Real Madrid was paused in the 50th minute after Vinícius Júnior approached referee François Letexier to report discriminatory remarks. The Brazilian forward immediately pointed toward Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni before leaving the field alongside his teammates. Letexier enacted UEFA’s anti-racism protocol, making the symbolic crossed-arms gesture signaling racist conduct. The stadium fell silent as officials from both clubs intervened, resulting in a ten-minute suspension of play [1][2][3]. The disruption occurred moments after Vinícius scored the match’s only goal.
tensions escalate following controversial celebration
After scoring in the 50th minute, Vinícius Júnior performed a celebratory dance near the corner flag, drawing criticism from Benfica players. The situation intensified when Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth with his jersey during an exchange with Vinícius. According to witness accounts, Prestianni uttered offensive language shortly before the interruption [1][3]. Vinícius reacted visibly, alerting the referee and initiating the formal procedure. Objects, including a water bottle, were subsequently hurled from sections of the home stand [4][5]. The referee issued a yellow card to Vinícius for excessive celebration, further inflaming emotions.
club responses and disciplinary outcomes
Despite the halt, play resumed after ten minutes under UEFA supervision. Real Madrid retained control and secured a 1–0 victory, advancing their position in the knockout phase [4]. Post-match developments included the dismissal of Benfica head coach José Mourinho, who received a second yellow card for protesting decisions [4]. The Portuguese Football Federation launched a formal investigation into the reported abuse. UEFA confirmed it would review all evidence, including audio recordings and player testimonies, to determine sanctions [1][3]. Vinícius has frequently condemned racism in European stadiums, citing similar incidents in Spain and Italy [1][4].
broader implications for european football
This incident highlights persistent issues surrounding discrimination in elite football, particularly targeting Black athletes. UEFA’s anti-racism protocol mandates immediate intervention when allegations arise, though implementation varies across competitions [1][3]. Critics argue existing measures remain reactive rather than preventive. The presence of high-profile figures like Mourinho and young talents such as Prestianni intensifies scrutiny on behavioral standards [4][5]. Analysts suggest stronger penalties, including point deductions or stadium bans, may be necessary to deter misconduct. Ongoing monitoring by human rights organizations emphasizes accountability at institutional levels [GPT].