UEFA has penalized Benfica for incidents involving discriminatory conduct by supporters during their Champions League clash against Real Madrid in Lisbon. The disciplinary body imposed a €40,000 fine after confirming that two individuals were responsible for “illicit chants and gestures” during the February 17 encounter.
UEFA has penalized Benfica for incidents involving discriminatory conduct by supporters during their Champions League clash against Real Madrid in Lisbon. The disciplinary body imposed a €40,000 fine after confirming that two individuals were responsible for “illicit chants and gestures” during the February 17 encounter.
The punishment focuses solely on fan behavior observed during the match, which drew widespread attention after images circulated showing offensive actions directed from the stands. The case adds to ongoing efforts by European football authorities to address racism in the sport.
In addition to the monetary sanction, Benfica have been placed under a one-year probation period. This means any further breaches could lead to partial closure of the Estádio da Luz during future European fixtures.
The conditional measure serves as a warning, placing responsibility on the club to ensure improved conduct among supporters. Failure to comply could result in stricter disciplinary consequences affecting matchday operations.
Before UEFA announced its decision, Benfica had already acted by suspending five fans linked to the incident. The club described their behavior as inappropriate and of a racist nature, signaling a zero-tolerance approach.
These internal measures were introduced while investigations were ongoing, reflecting an attempt by the club to address the situation promptly. The suspensions were part of efforts to cooperate with authorities and manage the fallout from the controversy.
The match itself was halted for nearly ten minutes after Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr raised concerns with the referee. He alleged that Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni directed a racist insult at him after he scored and celebrated in front of home supporters.
The interruption underscored the seriousness of the accusation, as officials took time to respond to the complaint. The moment became one of the defining incidents of the match.
Prestianni has rejected the allegation, maintaining that he did not make the reported remark. During the moment in question, he was seen pulling his shirt over his mouth, which added to the scrutiny surrounding the incident.
UEFA's investigation into the player remains ongoing, with no final verdict yet delivered. As a precautionary step, Prestianni was suspended for the return leg in Madrid while the case continues.
If found guilty, the Argentine winger could face a suspension of up to 10 matches in UEFA competitions. The possible punishment highlights the severity of racism-related offenses under current regulations.
The outcome of the investigation will determine whether further disciplinary action is taken against the player, separate from the sanction already imposed on the club.
Despite the controversy, Real Madrid completed a successful tie against Benfica. After a 1-0 win in Lisbon, they followed up with a 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu, sealing a 3-1 aggregate triumph.
Their progress did not stop there, as they later defeated Manchester City with a commanding 5-1 aggregate score across two matches. The results confirmed their strong form in the competition.
Real Madrid are now set to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals. The upcoming tie presents another major test as they continue their campaign in Europe’s top tournament.
Should they advance, a semi-final matchup awaits against either Paris Saint-Germain or Liverpool, setting the stage for another high-profile encounter.
