Real Madrid has initiated proceedings to permanently ban a supporter following a reported incident of a Nazi salute during Wednesday’s Champions League match against Benfica at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium. The club confirmed the immediate commencement of the exclusion process after images circulated on television broadcasts.
The supporter was identified by stadium security personnel after the gesture was captured on camera shortly before kickoff in the Grada de Animación, the stadium’s designated supporters’ section. The individual was immediately removed from the Bernabéu, according to a club statement. Real Madrid has formally requested an expedited review by its disciplinary committee to ensure the supporter is permanently barred from attending future matches.
“The club condemns this type of gesture and expression that incites violence and hatred in sport and in society in general,” Real Madrid stated. The swift action comes amid heightened scrutiny regarding racism in football, following allegations of racial abuse directed at Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during the first leg of the tie in Lisbon.
The match itself saw Real Madrid advance to the Champions League Round of 16 with a 2-1 victory on the night and a 3-1 aggregate win. Vinícius Júnior scored the decisive goal in the 80th minute, adding to an earlier strike from Aurélien Tchouameni. Benfica’s goal came from Rafa Silva in the 14th minute.
The incident involving the supporter occurred just days after Vinícius Júnior started for Real Madrid, following the first leg in Lisbon where he alleged racial abuse from Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni – an allegation Prestianni denied. Prior to the match, Real Madrid fans displayed banners in support of Vinícius Júnior, and messages of “No to racism” and “Respect” were broadcast over the stadium’s public address system.
Real Madrid will now face either Sporting Lisbon or Manchester City in the last 16 of the Champions League. The draw for the next round is scheduled to seize place on March 17th.
