Portuguese club Benfica has suspended five members following racist behavior during their match against Real Madrid.
The incident occurred when Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth with his shirt while addressing Vinicius, but there were additional racist acts in the stands at Da Luz. Benfica acted swiftly, expelling five members.
The club released a statement explaining that such racist conduct is “incompatible with the values and principles that govern the club.” Those suspended now face disciplinary proceedings that could result in their permanent expulsion under the club’s statutes.
Benfica used the opportunity to reaffirm its commitment to combating racism, stating it “will act firmly whenever behaviors threaten the values of the club, sport, and society.”
The full statement from Benfica reads:
“Sport Lisboa e Benfica informs that it has suspended five members and cancelled their respective Red Passes following the initiation of disciplinary proceedings that may lead to the maximum penalty provided for in the Statutes: expulsion.
The opening of this disciplinary process results from the internal investigation launched after the match between Benfica and Real Madrid, held on February 17, and the adoption of inappropriate, racist behaviors in the stands, incompatible with the values and principles that govern the Club.
Sport Lisboa e Benfica reaffirms that it does not tolerate any form of discrimination or racism and will continue to act firmly whenever behaviors threaten the values of the Club, sport, and society.”
On the lingering fallout from the ‘Prestianni case,’ José Mourinho, who opted not to face the media before the return leg against Real Madrid, is expected to address the issue in his pre-match press conference on Sunday ahead of Monday’s game against Gil Vicente.