Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold has strongly condemned the alleged racist abuse directed at teammate Vinícius Júnior during the UEFA Champions League knockout play-off first-leg victory over Benfica at Estádio da Luz on February 17, 2026.
The incident overshadowed Real Madrid’s 1-0 win, in which Vinícius Júnior scored the decisive goal. The match was halted for approximately 10 minutes after Vinícius reported the alleged abuse to referee Francois Letexier, triggering UEFA’s anti-racism protocol. The Benfica player involved was reported as midfielder Gianluca Prestianni, who has denied the claims.
Speaking to media outlets after the game, Alexander-Arnold described the episode as unacceptable and one that has repeatedly affected his teammate throughout his career.
“What has happened is a disgrace to football and overshadowed the performance, as well as an amazing goal,” said Alexander-Arnold.
“Vini has been subject to this a few times throughout his career. To ruin a night like this for our team is a disgrace.
“There is no place for it in football or society. It is disgusting.”
The comments come amid ongoing scrutiny of racism in football, with Vinícius Júnior having faced multiple similar incidents in recent years. The Brazilian forward later posted on social media that “racists are, above all, cowards” and emphasized the need to address such behavior firmly.
Real Madrid secured an important away victory in the tie, but the post-match focus shifted to the alleged abuse and calls for investigation and appropriate action by UEFA.