As a result of the racism scandal surrounding Vinícius Júnior, the European Football Union (UEFA) has imposed penalties against the Portuguese record champions Benfica Lisbon.
The club was fined €40,000 for the “racist and/or discriminatory behavior” of two fans. There is also a risk of partial closure of a spectator stand for a European Cup match – this sanction has been suspended for a year.
In addition, there is a fine of 33,000 euros for further misconduct by Benfica fans (throwing objects, using a laser pointer). Assistant coach Pedro Luis Ferreira Machado was suspended for one game by the UEFA Disciplinary Committee for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Benfica had previously initiated an investigation against the two supporters. The fans can be seen on video making negative monkey gestures towards Vinícius during the Champions League playoff game against Real Madrid (0-1).
The game was overshadowed by accusations of racism and had to be interrupted. Real players accused Benfica professional Gianluca Prestianni of calling Vinícius a “monkey” after his goal. During the exchange of words, the Argentine held his jersey to his mouth. UEFA then temporarily banned Prestianni. The investigation is not yet complete.
