UEFA has officially issued a series of disciplinary sanctions against Portuguese giants SL Benfica, following an investigation into racist conduct during their recent Champions League playoff encounter with Real Madrid. The governing body’s decision comes weeks after a high-tension match at the Estádio da Luz, which was marred by allegations of a racial slur directed at Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni—an incident that triggered the activation of UEFA’s anti-racism protocols and a temporary halt to the game.
The fallout from the disciplinary hearing has resulted in a significant financial penalty and a looming stadium restriction for the Lisbon-based club. UEFA confirmed that the verified racist behavior of certain supporters has necessitated a firm response to uphold the integrity of the competition.
The official ruling from the Control, Ethics, and Disciplinary Body stated:
“To fine Benfica €40,000 and to order the partial closure of Benfica’s stadium.”
The partial closure, which specifically targets 500 seats in sectors 10 and 11 of the Estádio da Luz, has been suspended for a one-year probationary period. However, this was not the only infraction cited in the report. The club has been hit with an additional €8,000 fine for the “use of a laser pointer by their supporters” and a further €25,000 penalty for the “throwing of objects” during the match.
Beyond the organizational sanctions, the technical bench also faced repercussions. UEFA has handed Pedro Machado, an assistant coach for the Eagles, a one-match suspension for unsporting conduct. While the investigation into the specific exchange between Prestianni and Vinícius remains a focal point of ongoing discussions, these immediate penalties signal UEFA’s intent to address the broader atmosphere of hostility reported during the tie.
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