Real Madrid Fined, Faces Potential Stadium Closure After Fan Nazi Salute

Real Madrid has been fined €15,000 (approximately $16,300 USD) and faces a suspended partial stadium closure after a supporter was filmed appearing to perform a Nazi salute before their Champions League match against Benfica on February 25, 2026. The incident occurred at the Santiago Bernabéu stadium in Madrid, Spain.

UEFA Sanctions and Club Response

UEFA has ordered a suspended partial closure of 500 seats in the lower south stand of the Bernabéu for one Real Madrid home European match. This punishment will be enacted if similar incidents occur within the next year. Real Madrid promptly ejected the fan identified as making the gesture and condemned the action, stating they do not tolerate such behavior.

Context of Heightened Tensions

The incident took place amid already heightened tensions surrounding the match. Prior to the second leg, Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni was provisionally banned for one match following allegations of racial abuse directed towards Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during the first leg of the tie. A full investigation into the allegations against Prestianni is ongoing.

Mourinho’s Stance on Discrimination

Benfica manager José Mourinho initially faced criticism for his reaction to Vinícius Júnior’s allegations, referencing the Brazilian player’s goal celebration. Still, Mourinho has since unequivocally condemned all forms of discrimination. He stated that any player found to have engaged in discriminatory behavior would have their career with Benfica terminated.

Match Result and Champions League Progression

Real Madrid won the second leg 2-1, securing a 3-1 aggregate victory over Benfica. Vinícius Júnior scored the winning goal. Real Madrid will advance to face Manchester City in the last 16 of the Champions League.