MADRID, Spain — European football’s governing body, UEFA, has imposed disciplinary measures on Real Madrid following an incident involving a fan’s conduct during a Champions League fixture. The sanctions include a financial penalty of 15,000 euros (approximately $17,000) and a suspended partial stadium closure.
The disciplinary action stems from an event preceding the second leg of Real Madrid’s play-off encounter against Benfica on February 25th. A spectator was captured on camera performing a Nazi salute within the stadium stands prior to kickoff. UEFA’s disciplinary committee formally charged the club “for the racist and/or discriminatory behaviour of its supporters.”
In response to the incident, Real Madrid officials promptly identified and ejected the individual responsible from the venue. The additional sanction of a 500-seat stadium closure has been suspended for a one-year probationary period, meaning it will only be enforced should similar incidents occur within the next twelve months.
This match was notably the second consecutive encounter between these clubs to be overshadowed by allegations of discriminatory behavior. The first leg featured an unrelated incident where Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni was accused of directing racist remarks toward Real Madrid winger Vinicius Junior—an allegation the player has denied.
Despite these controversies, Real Madrid successfully advanced to the Champions League’s last 16, where they are scheduled to compete against English Premier League champions Manchester City in the next phase of the tournament.