Madrid gathering evidence after Da Luz incidents as UEFA probe begins
Real Madrid collecting video and audio evidence following alleged racist incidents at Benfica, with UEFA already investigating claims against Prestianni.
Real Madrid taking action after troubling scenes in Lisbon Champions League clash, with Vinicius Jr once again at the centre of racist abuse allegations.
Madrid collecting evidence
Real Madrid aren’t sitting on their hands after Tuesday’s unsavoury events at the Estádio da Luz. The Spanish giants are actively gathering both video and audio evidence of what transpired following Vinicius Jr’s goal celebration against Benfica, which apparently triggered racist gestures from some home supporters.
The club is being careful not to tar all Benfica fans with the same brush, recognizing these were isolated incidents rather than representative of the Portuguese club or its supporters as a whole. Madrid are still determining whether their findings will be compiled into a formal report for UEFA.
UEFA already investigating
European football’s governing body has already launched an investigation into the alleged racist remarks made by Benfica’s Prestianni towards Vinicius Jr. The Brazilian immediately reported the incident to referee François Letexier, resulting in a 10-minute suspension of play while officials addressed the situation.
Madrid have fully backed Vinicius in this matter, as well as supporting Mbappé’s response both on the pitch and later in the mixed zone. However, the club understands that proving Prestianni repeatedly called Vinicius a “monkey” - as alleged - will be extremely difficult if not impossible.
Broader context
The Spanish club isn’t looking to wage war against Benfica or its supporters. They recognize that:
- The match atmosphere was consistent with European rivalry between two historic clubs
- Champions League knockout ties naturally bring added pressure
- Inappropriate behavior can occur in any stadium, including the Bernabéu
Nevertheless, Madrid continue to gather information about Tuesday night’s events and remain steadfast in their support of Vinicius, who has unfortunately been subjected to unacceptable treatment on multiple occasions throughout his career.
This latest incident is proper disappointing for all involved, and the football world awaits UEFA’s findings with bated breath. Another case of racism potentially marring what should be the beautiful game - it’s just not cricket, is it?