Benfica fined for fans' racism at Real Madrid game with UEFA investigation

UEFA has imposed financial sanctions on Benfica following racist behavior by supporters during their Champions League encounter with Real Madrid, while a separate investigation continues regarding alleged racial abuse directed at Madrid forward Vinicius Junior by Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni.

The European football governing body announced on Wednesday that Benfica has been fined €40,000 ($46,000) for "illicit chants and gestures by two supporters" during the February 17 match in Lisbon. The verdict addresses fan misconduct charges, while UEFA's investigation into the Prestianni incident remains ongoing.

As part of the sanctions, the Portuguese club must complete a one-year probationary period to avoid having sections of Lisbon's Estadio da Luz closed during future European competition matches. Benfica had previously taken disciplinary action by suspending five supporters who were under investigation for "inappropriate behaviour in the stands of a racist nature."

Television footage captured supporters making monkey gestures following Madrid's 1-0 victory in the first leg of the Champions League knockout playoff round. The disturbing scenes were part of a broader pattern of discriminatory behavior that has plagued European football.

The match experienced a significant disruption when play was halted for nearly 10 minutes after Vinicius reported to the referee that Prestianni had called him a "monkey" following his goal celebration in front of the Benfica supporters. The incident occurred as the Brazilian forward celebrated near the home fans.

Prestianni, who has denied the allegation, was observed pulling his jersey over his mouth at the time the alleged slur was reportedly made. The Argentine winger faced immediate consequences, as UEFA suspended him from the second leg in Madrid pending their investigation.

Should the charges against Prestianni be substantiated, the player faces a potential 10-game suspension from UEFA competition matches, highlighting the organization's commitment to combating discrimination in European football.