Real Madrid Moves to Expel Fan After Nazi Salute Is Broadcast During Champions League Night

Real Madrid has taken swift disciplinary action against a supporter captured on live television making a Nazi salute at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium ahead of their UEFA Champions League tie against Benfica. The gesture, shown on screens just before kickoff, prompted condemnation from the club and a formal request to begin expulsion proceedings against the individual.

The incident occurred moments before Real Madrid’s second-leg match, which the Spanish giants won 2-1 to secure a 3-1 aggregate victory and progression to the Champions League Round of 16. Television cameras picked up the supporter performing the offensive gesture in a section of the crowd, prompting stadium security to identify and remove him before the match got underway.

In an official statement, Real Madrid emphasised its rejection of actions that promote violence, hatred or discrimination, saying such behaviour has no place in sport or society. The club revealed that its Disciplinary Committee has been instructed to urgently initiate procedures to expel the member from the club. The supporter was promptly ejected from the Bernabéu by security personnel following the live broadcast of the gesture.

Real Madrid’s reaction reflects a growing focus within European football on tackling extremist and hate-driven conduct among fans. The episode came amid already heightened emotions surrounding the tie, which earlier saw controversy after Brazilian forward Vinícius Júnior alleged racial abuse from a Benfica player during the first leg in Lisbon.

While the club did not directly link the two incidents, the display of the salute on international television drew an immediate and stern response from Real Madrid. Club officials have reiterated their commitment to fostering an environment of respect and inclusion, and said they will support further action if necessary to prevent such conduct in the future.