Real Madrid bans fan for performing Nazi salute at Benfica match

Real Madrid Bans Club Member for Performing Nazi Salute During Champions League Game

A Real Madrid club member has been banned from the stadium after performing a Nazi salute during the second leg of the Champions League playoff against Benfica. The incident occurred before kickoff on Wednesday evening, and the club’s security staff immediately identified and expelled the individual.

In a statement, Real Madrid condemned the gesture, stating that it “incites violence and hatred in sports and society.” The club also expressed its support for Vinicius Junior, who was allegedly targeted with racial abuse by Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni during the first leg of the playoff last week. Prestianni has denied the allegations.

Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni praised his team’s 2-1 win over Benfica, saying it was a “victory for everyone who is against racism.” Vinicius Junior also expressed support for the anti-racism movement on social media, posting a photo of a large “no to racism” banner displayed at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium.

Coach Alvaro Arbeloa stated that French superstar Kylian Mbappe would spend time recovering from a knee injury before returning to action. The coach emphasized the importance of allowing Mbappe to recover fully and return in top shape, confident and without discomfort.

The incident has sparked further controversy surrounding racism in sports, with Prestianni’s provisional suspension by UEFA still under investigation.

Source: Al Jazeera