FIFA President Gianni Infantino commented on the alleged racism incident that occurred in the Champions League match between Benfica and Real Madrid, where Vinícius Júnior accused Argentine Gianluca Prestianni of making discriminatory insults. "I was surprised and saddened to see the incident," stated Infantino, emphasizing that there is no place for racism in our sport or in society, according to the Argentine News Agency. The leader called on all parties involved to act decisively and demand accountability if the facts are confirmed. He also highlighted measures initiated by FIFA, such as the Global Action Against Racism and the Players' Voice Panel, aimed at protecting players, referees, and fans from any form of discrimination. Infantino praised the performance of French referee François Letexier, who activated the anti-racism protocol during the match by stopping the game and making the appropriate gesture to address the situation on the field. If confirmed, the regulations provide for severe sanctions that could include a long international suspension for the player involved, in an episode that once again put the focus on the fight against racism in European football. According to the leader, such interventions are key to sending a message of zero tolerance towards racist behaviors. The case is now under analysis by UEFA, which has opened a disciplinary file to determine if the insults denounced by the Brazilian took place.
