Shocking moment during the UEFA Champions League knockout playoff first leg on February 17, 2026, Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Junior reported racial abuse from Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni. The Brazilian forward claimed Prestianni called him “monkey” (mono) while deliberately covering his mouth with his shirt. The accusation led to an immediate stoppage, activating UEFA’s anti-racism protocol and halting play for nearly 10 minutes at Estádio da Luz in Lisbon.
Match Context and Build-Up
- The tie pitted Real Madrid against José Mourinho’s Benfica in a high-stakes playoff encounter.
- Vinicius, already a target of racist abuse throughout his career in Spain and Europe, entered the match amid heightened tensions.
- Mourinho, managing Benfica, added extra spice to the fixture as a former Real Madrid coach.
The Goal That Sparked Chaos Five minutes into the second half (around the 52nd minute), Vinicius produced a stunning individual goal to give Real Madrid a 1-0 lead. His celebration – an energetic dance in front of the corner flag – provoked immediate backlash from the home side and fans.
Confrontation and Alleged Abuse
- Benfica players, including captain Nicolás Otamendi, rushed to confront the Brazilian.
- Argentine winger Gianluca Prestianni approached Vinicius while covering his mouth with his jersey, appearing to speak directly to him.
- Moments later, Vinicius pointed accusingly at Prestianni and sprinted toward French referee François Letexier.
- According to lip-read reports and multiple sources, Vinicius told the referee: “Prestianni has called me monkey while covering his mouth with the shirt!”
Protocol Activated and Sideline Drama The referee immediately stopped the game and initiated UEFA’s three-step anti-racism protocol. Vinicius walked toward the Real Madrid bench, briefly refusing to continue. In a highly charged scene, he then approached the touchline and directly informed Benfica manager José Mourinho of the alleged abuse.
Key Points of the Delay
- Real Madrid players showed solidarity; several teammates followed Vinicius off the pitch temporarily.
- Multiple shoving matches broke out across the field.
- A member of Benfica’s backroom staff received a red card.
- The match remained paused for approximately 9-10 minutes amid tense negotiations.
- Vinicius sat on the bench during part of the stoppage before eventually returning.
Resumption and Aftermath Play eventually restarted, though the atmosphere remained electric. Mourinho was heavily involved in touchline discussions and later faced further disciplinary action. The incident overshadowed Vinicius’s brilliant goal and once again thrust racism in football into the spotlight.
Broader Significance
- This marks yet another high-profile case involving Vinicius, who has repeatedly spoken out against racist insults in stadiums across Europe.
- Prestianni, a young Argentine talent, has not publicly commented at the time of reporting.
- UEFA is expected to investigate the claims thoroughly, with potential sanctions for the player and club if proven.
- The episode serves as a stark reminder that, despite progress, racism continues to plague the beautiful game. Football authorities, clubs, and players must maintain zero tolerance.
Vinicius’s courage in speaking out immediately, supported by his teammates and the swift referee response, highlights growing awareness and protocols designed to protect players. As the tie progresses to the second leg, all eyes will remain on how football’s governing bodies address this serious allegation.