Official: Benfica suspend five members over racist behaviour during Real Madrid clash | OneFootball

SL Benfica have suspended five club members for racist behavior during the match against Real Madrid at the Estadio da Luz on February 17.

During that game, Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. was allegedly racially abused by Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni, by calling him a ‘monkey’.

Following that incident, there were some fans in the stands who were seen making monkey sounds and gestures targeting the Brazilian international.

Now, in a statement released today, Benfica club confirmed that it has revoked the season tickets of the five members after initiating disciplinary proceedings that could lead to the maximum sanction under the club statutes – expulsion.

The statement from the Portuguese giants read as follows:

“Sport Lisboa e Benfica informs that it has suspended five members and cancelled their respective Red Passes following the initiation of disciplinary proceedings which may lead to the application of the maximum sanction provided for in the Statutes: expulsion.

“The opening of these disciplinary proceedings results from the internal inquiry triggered following the match between Benfica and Real Madrid, held on February 17th, and the adoption of inappropriate behaviours in the stands, of a racist nature, incompatible with the values ​​and principles that govern the Club.

“Sport Lisboa e Benfica reaffirms that it does not tolerate any form of discrimination or racism and will continue to act firmly whenever behaviors that undermine the values ​​of the Club, sport, and society are involved.”

Meanwhile, Prestianni was handed provisionally suspended for one match by UEFA, causing him to miss the second leg played at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. With investigation ongoing, he could face a ten-game ban if found guilty.