Gianni Infantino congratulates François Letexier after alleged incident in Benfica v Real Madrid | OneFootball

Gianni Infantino has praised referee François Letexier’s handling of an alleged racist incident during Benfica v Real Madrid in the Champions League play-off first leg.

The FIFA president said in a post on Instagram on Wednesday that he commended the French official for activating the anti-racism protocol, using the arm gesture to stop the match.

On Tuesday night, controversy followed Vinicius Junior’s opener, a superb strike into the top corner in the 50th minute. He accused Gianluca Prestianni of racially abusing him in Spanish, an allegation Prestianni denies. Letexier then suspended play for several minutes.

Infantino expressed shock and sadness at the alleged abuse directed at Vinicius Junior. He insisted there is no place for racism in football or society and urged all relevant stakeholders to take action.

He concluded by offering FIFA and football’s full solidarity to victims of racism and any form of discrimination.

Source: L'Équipe