Lisbon Scandal Unfolds: Racist Chants Target Vinícius Júnior as UEFA Opens Inquiry
19 February 2026
Lisbon scandal
Investigation widens in Lisbon
The night at the Luz stadium did not end with Vinícius Júnior’s accusation against Benfica's Gianluca Bristianni; a fresh incident has put the Portuguese club in a tricky spot before UEFA.
In widely shared videos and on global outlets like AS and RMC Sport, footage allegedly shows Benfica fans directing direct racist taunts at the Brazilian star.
Images show several Benfica supporters mimicking 'monkey chants' just meters from Vinícius after he scored the only goal and celebrated, which some deemed provocative.
Racism cases spark action
According to RMC, these recorded clips could push the case toward a harsher trajectory; while focus had been on the clash between Bristianni and Vinícius, the footage confirms a hostile and racist atmosphere in the stands.
As a result, UEFA opened a formal probe and appointed an ethics and disciplinary inspector to look into the discriminatory behavior seen on the pitch.
Portugal's anti-violence sports authority also opened administrative penalties to identify facts and sanction the involved fans.
Kylian Mbappé, the Real Madrid star, urged strict sanctions, calling what happened a serious case that cannot be tolerated in Europe’s top competitions.
Real Madrid left Lisbon with a 1-0 win, taking a step toward the Champions League knockout rounds, as the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu awaits.
The case could reshape how Europe handles on-pitch abuse, with sanctions potentially extending beyond this match.
Punchline: Clean stadiums, clean minds.
Punchline 2: Maybe add a referee with mood lighting.
