The match between Benfica and Real Madrid at the Estádio da Luz took a dangerous turn in the 50th minute when French referee François Lecq decided to halt the game and activate the anti-racism protocol.
The incident began after Vinícius Júnior scored a goal and celebrated with his signature dance, only to receive a yellow card for protesting. Tensions quickly escalated when several Benfica players confronted the Brazilian star, and Argentine player Gianluca Prestini approached him.
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According to the Spanish newspaper Marca, as he approached the referee, Vinícius reported that Prestini had called him a “monkey,” prompting the referee to immediately make an “X” with his arms,a clear indication of activating UEFA’s anti-racism protocol.
This action forced the refereeing team to officially address the situation amidst palpable tension on the pitch, highlighting the ongoing sensitivity surrounding racism in European stadiums, particularly in high-profile matches.
Fans are now waiting to see what the official reports and potential penalties will reveal after this incident, which cast a shadow over one of the most prominent continental fixtures.
