Real Madrid have confirmed they have submitted all available evidence to UEFA as part of the investigation into Vinicius Jr’s allegation that he was subjected to a racist slur during Tuesday’s Champions League match against Benfica.

Real Madrid back Vinicius after racism allegation in Benfica clash

The match, which ended in a 1-0 win for Real Madrid in the first leg of the Champions League playoff tie, was suspended for 11 minutes after Vinicius reported that Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni had directed a racist insult at him.

Vinicius had scored the game’s only goal just five minutes into the second half, and the alleged incident was said to have taken place shortly after.

Prestianni has denied the allegation, insisting Vinicius “misunderstood what he thinks he heard.” Benfica also released a statement standing by their winger, while UEFA appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to investigate the claim.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Real Madrid said:
“Real Madrid C.F. announces that today it has provided UEFA with all available evidence regarding the incidents that occurred on Tuesday.”

The Spanish club also acknowledged the support Vinicius has received since the match and reiterated their position against discrimination.

“Real Madrid will continue to work, in collaboration with all institutions, to eradicate racism, violence and hatred in sport and in society,” the statement added.

Benfica will travel to Madrid for the second leg next Wednesday, with the tie still open despite Real’s narrow advantage.