A Real Madrid fan was thrown out. © ANSA / RODRIGO JIMENEZ

Hitler salute given: Real Madrid expels member

Real Madrid has expelled a member from the stadium for giving the Hitler salute during the second leg against Benfica Lisbon following the racism incident against Vinícius Júnior.

February 26, 2026

From: dpa/det

Following the incident at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, Real Madrid announced that disciplinary proceedings will be initiated against the fan for potential expulsion. According to the club, the fan was filmed by television cameras making the gesture in the fan zone. Security personnel then located the individual. "Real Madrid condemns such gestures and statements that incite violence and hatred in sport and society," the club stated.

The knockout round match against the Portuguese side (2-1) was already under close scrutiny because Real Madrid striker Vinícius Júnior was allegedly racially abused by opponent Gianluca Prestianni during the game in Lisbon. Prestianni had been provisionally suspended by UEFA. Madrid fans displayed a banner in the second leg with the words "no al racismo" ("No to racism"). Vinícius was booed by the traveling Benfica supporters whenever he touched the ball. As in the first leg, the Brazilian scored a goal.