Benfica Opens Investigation into Racist Gestures by Fans Against Vinicius

T.E (Elbotola)

20 February 2026at18:32

Portuguese club Benfica has launched an investigation targeting two fans who appeared in a video circulating on social media, making monkey gestures directed at Brazilian player Vinicius Junior of Spanish club Real Madrid. The incident occurred during the teams' match last Tuesday, which was the first leg of the UEFA Champions League playoff round.

A Benfica spokesperson confirmed to Agence France-Presse (AFP) on Friday what had been reported by the Portuguese press regarding the club's investigation into the fans. The spokesperson noted that if the individuals are members of the club, the proceedings could result in their expulsion.

The circulating video, notably shared on former England player Rio Ferdinand's X (formerly Twitter) account, shows two fans wearing Benfica's red jersey moving their arms in a manner mimicking monkey gestures.

The match, which Real Madrid won 1-0, also saw accusations of racism made by Vinicius against 20-year-old Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni, who plays for Benfica.

The following day, UEFA announced it had opened an investigation into allegations of "racist behavior" by Prestianni, whom Vinicius Junior accused of calling him a "monkey."

Q&A

What prompted Benfica to investigate its own fans?

Benfica launched an investigation after a video circulated showing two fans making monkey gestures directed at Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior during their Champions League match. The club confirmed potential expulsion for members involved.

What other racism allegations emerged from the Real Madrid vs. Benfica match?

Vinicius Junior also accused Benfica's 20-year-old Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni of calling him a 'monkey.' UEFA has since opened an investigation into these specific allegations of racist behavior.

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