Real Madrid fined by UEFA for Nazi salute

Spanish giants Real Madrid have been handed a major punishment for an incident in the stands after beating Benfica on the pitch and securing a place in the last 16 of the Champions League. European football's governing body UEFA has fined the club 15,000 euros (about $17,000) for a fan giving a "Nazi salute" during last week's play-off round match.

UEFA's disciplinary body said in a statement on Friday (March 6) that the punishment was imposed for "racist and discriminatory behaviour" by a Real fan during the second leg of the match against Benfica on February 25. In addition to the fine, a 500-seat section of the Santiago Bernabeu stadium has been ordered to be closed. However, the ban will be suspended for a one-year "probationary period".

Background

A Real Madrid fan was caught on camera giving a Nazi salute in the gallery before the match started. Real Madrid authorities immediately removed the fan from the stadium after the incident came to their attention.

It is worth noting that the first leg match between the two teams was also controversial. There, Benfica's Gianluca Prestiani was accused of racist behavior towards Real winger Vinicius Junior. However, Prestiani denied the accusation.

Real Madrid, having overcome all the controversies, is now busy preparing for the next round of the Champions League. In the last 16, they will have to face the powerful team of the English Premier League, Manchester City.