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Benfica Suspends Fans for Racist Abuse Against Vinícius Júnior

2/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Benfica suspended five supporters for racist behavior during a Champions League match against Real Madrid on February 17.
Disciplinary proceedings followed reports of fans making monkey gestures toward Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior.
The match was paused after allegations of racial abuse directed at Júnior by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, who denies them.
Benfica said it has zero tolerance for discrimination and will impose maximum sanctions on those found guilty.

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Story summary

Benfica suspended five supporters for racist behavior during a Champions League match against Real Madrid on February 17.
Disciplinary proceedings followed reports of fans making monkey gestures toward Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior.
The match was paused after allegations of racial abuse directed at Júnior by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni, who denies them.
Benfica said it has zero tolerance for discrimination and will impose maximum sanctions on those found guilty.