UEFA Sanctions Real Madrid Over Racist Incident in Match

UEFA's Control, Ethics, and Disciplinary Committee has imposed a suspended closure on a section of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of Real Madrid CF, following a racist incident during a Champions League match against Benfica. The sanction involves the potential closure of a 500-seat section near the lower south stand if similar offenses occur within the next 12 months.

The incident took place during the match when a fan was caught on broadcast cameras performing a Nazi salute. Security staff quickly identified and removed the individual from the stadium.

Real Madrid subsequently issued a statement distancing the club from the fan's conduct. The club had displayed a banner supporting Vinícius Júnior during the match, which followed earlier controversies involving Gianluca Prestianni.

UEFA has also fined Real Madrid €15,000 as part of the disciplinary measures, emphasizing that any repeat offense within the year will lead to a partial closure of the stadium for future European fixtures.