Benfica Suspend Five Fans Following Racism Incidents in Real Madrid Clash

SL Benfica announced on Friday, February 27, 2026, that the club has provisionally suspended five supporters and canceled their "red passes" (season tickets) following an internal investigation into racist behavior. The incidents occurred during the Champions League knockout play-off first leg against Real Madrid at the Estádio da Luz on February 17. The club's statement confirmed that disciplinary proceedings have been initiated, which could lead to the maximum penalty of permanent expulsion, after television footage captured fans making monkey gestures in the stands. Benfica reaffirmed its "zero tolerance" policy, stating that such actions undermine the values of the club and sport as a whole.

The match itself was historically significant for the wrong reasons, as referee François Letexier was forced to activate the FIFA anti-racism protocol and halt play for nearly ten minutes early in the second half. The stoppage followed a direct complaint from Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior, who alleged he was racially insulted by Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni immediately after scoring the opening goal. While Prestianni denied the accusations—claiming his comments were misunderstood—UEFA provisionally suspended the 20-year-old for the second leg in Madrid while a full ethics investigation continues.

Despite the heavy atmosphere and the ongoing controversy, Real Madrid secured their passage to the Round of 16 with a 2-1 victory at the Santiago Bernabéu on Wednesday, progressing 3-1 on aggregate. Fittingly, Vinícius Júnior scored the winning goal in the second leg, celebrating defiantly in front of the home fans. Following the game, Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and manager Álvaro Arbeloa expressed full support for their teammate, while Benfica president Rui Costa has traveled to UEFA headquarters to defend the club’s reputation while simultaneously vowing to purge any confirmed racists from their membership.