Real Madrid has initiated the immediate expulsion of a club member identified performing a Nazi salute during Wednesday’s Champions League victory over Benfica.
Real Madrid has banned a club member for performing a Nazi salute during the Champions League playoff second leg against Benfica.
The individual was identified by security staff and immediately removed from the Santiago Bernabéu.
“Real Madrid condemns this type of gesture and expression that incites violence and hatred in sports and society,” the club stated, confirming an “immediate expulsion procedure” is underway via its disciplinary committee.
The incident followed allegations of racial abuse against Vinícius Júnior in the first leg. Midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni called the aggregate win a “victory for everyone who is against racism.”
He added, “But I think there are things more important than this match, and more important than football.”
Vinícius Júnior celebrated his decisive goal by posting a “no to racism” banner online, noting “the dance continues.”