Tensions Flare After Champions League Clash: Benfica President and Real Madrid Delegate Reportedly Involved in Tunnel Incident
The Champions League knockout play-off tie between Benfica and Real Madrid on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, was marred by accusations of racism and allegations of a physical altercation in the tunnel following the match. The game, which Real Madrid won 1-0, saw a late stoppage due to concerns raised by Vinicius Jr. Regarding alleged racial abuse.
Racism Allegations Halt Play
During the second half, Vinicius Jr. Accused Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni of racial abuse. The match was halted for approximately 10 minutes while referee Francois Letexier investigated the incident, signaling a potential racist slur with the crossed arms gesture. Vinicius Jr. Subsequently stated on Instagram, “Racists are cowards,” while Prestianni denied the allegations, claiming he was the recipient of threats from Real Madrid players SPORTbible.
Alleged Altercation in the Tunnel
Following the heated match, which also included a red card for Benfica manager Jose Mourinho, reports emerged of a tense confrontation in the Estádio da Luz tunnel. Journalist Manolo Lama from COPE claimed that Benfica president Rui Costa was involved in a physical altercation with a member of the Real Madrid delegation SPORTbible.
According to Lama, the incident escalated when a member of Real Madrid’s communications team began recording video footage of the situation. Costa reportedly asked the employee to stop recording, and when refused, allegedly moved the camera and placed his hand on the employee’s body SPORTbible.
Benfica Denies Claims
Benfica has vehemently denied the reports of a physical altercation. In a statement released on February 18, 2026, the club stated, “It is completely false that the president of Sport Lisboa e Benfica was involved in any argument or physical confrontation with a member of Real Madrid. This is a totally false and unfounded accusation” GiveMeSport, Bolavip.
Further Investigation Expected
The UEFA has yet to comment on the alleged incident in the tunnel, but it is expected that an investigation will be launched to determine the full extent of what occurred. The accusations of racism will also likely be subject to scrutiny by European football’s governing body GiveMeSport.