Vinicius Jr alleges racist remarks as Benfica match halted

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·17 February 2026

Vinicius Jr alleges racist remarks as Benfica match halted

According to Le Progres, the Champions League play-off first leg between Benfica and Real Madrid was halted on Tuesday night after Vinicius Jr alleged he was subjected to racist remarks.

Around 50 minutes in, and shortly after putting Real ahead, the Brazilian complained to referee François Letexier about comments he attributed to Benfica's Argentine forward Gianluca Prestianni.

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Kylian Mbappé appeared furious and Vinicius briefly considered walking off, before seemingly being persuaded by coach Alvaro Arbeloa to remain on the pitch.

Prestianni received no sanction. Footage showed him speaking to Vinicius with his shirt pulled over his mouth, making any lip-reading impossible.

After eight minutes of confusion, Letexier restarted the match.

Source: Le Progres