MADRID – Real Madrid has swiftly condemned and initiated expulsion proceedings against a fan filmed performing a Nazi salute during Wednesday’s Champions League second-leg playoff match against Benfica at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The incident occurred as supporters displayed a banner proclaiming “No to Racism” following accusations of racial abuse directed at Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior in the first leg of the tie.
The club released a statement late Wednesday confirming that the individual was identified by security personnel shortly after the footage circulated on social media. Real Madrid has requested its disciplinary committee immediately initiate the process of permanently barring the fan from the stadium. “Real Madrid C.F. Announces that it has urgently requested the club’s disciplinary committee to initiate immediate expulsion proceedings against the member who was filmed by television cameras making the Nazi salute in the area where the supporters’ stand is located, just moments before the start of the match between Real Madrid and Benfica,” the statement read. “This member was located by the club’s security personnel moments after appearing on screen and was immediately expelled from the Santiago Bernabéu stadium. Real Madrid condemns this type of gestures and expressions that incite violence and hatred in sport and in society.”
The incident casts a shadow over Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory, which secured their place in the Champions League round of 16 with a 3-1 aggregate score. Vinícius Júnior himself scored the decisive goal in the 80th minute, a moment celebrated by dancing in front of both Real Madrid and, pointedly, Benfica supporters – a gesture that has become a source of controversy in recent weeks.
This latest incident follows accusations last week that Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni racially insulted Vinícius Júnior during the first leg in Lisbon. The match was briefly halted as the referee implemented anti-racism protocols following Vinícius’ complaint. Prestianni denied the allegations and was provisionally suspended by UEFA for one match, a suspension that was upheld despite a last-minute appeal from Benfica. He did not play in Wednesday’s return leg.
The reaction from within the Real Madrid camp has been strong. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois expressed his support for Vinícius, stating, “I’m glad Vini dances and keeps dancing, that means he’s scoring goals.” Midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni added, “That’s our Vinícius.” Tchouaméni also scored in the match, opening the scoring in the 16th minute after Benfica had taken an early lead through Rafa Silva.
The timing of the fan’s abhorrent gesture, coinciding with the anti-racism banner and ongoing accusations of racial abuse, underscores the persistent challenges facing football in combating prejudice. The club’s swift response, however, sends a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated at the Santiago Bernabéu. It’s a message echoed by many across the sport, as governing bodies and clubs alike grapple with how to effectively address and eradicate racism from the game.
Vinícius Júnior has become a focal point in the fight against racism in Spanish football, and this incident is likely to further fuel the debate. His willingness to speak out and his continued celebration of his goals, despite facing abuse, have made him a symbol of resistance. The Brazilian international has now scored six goals in his last five matches for Real Madrid, continuing a strong run of form.
Real Madrid will now turn their attention to their upcoming La Liga fixtures, while Benfica will continue their season in the Portuguese Primeira Liga. The incident, however, is likely to linger, serving as a stark reminder of the work that remains to be done to create a truly inclusive and welcoming environment for all in football.
The club has not released the identity of the expelled fan, and it remains unclear whether any legal action will be taken beyond the stadium ban. However, the swiftness of their response demonstrates a commitment to upholding the values of respect and inclusivity.
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