UEFA has banned Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni for six matches after finding him guilty of “homophobic” conduct toward Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior during a Champions League play-off match on February 17.
The 20-year-old Argentine was provisionally suspended for the second leg after Vinicius reported a racial slur. Real Madrid players Kylian Mbappe and Aurelien Tchouameni said they heard Prestianni call Vinicius a “monkey”.
Prestianni denied the racist accusation. He told UEFA investigators he had used a homophobic slur instead, which Vinicius had misinterpreted. Benfica backed their player, claiming a “defamation campaign” had been orchestrated against him.
You may also like
The match was halted for 10 minutes as UEFA enacted its anti-racism protocol, with players leaving the field after Vinicius complained to the referee. Benfica later suspended five club members for separate racist acts during the same game.
🔍 Explore More
- NRTC English Knowledge Base – Learn, improve, and sharpen your English skills.
- Top Stories From Around the World – Stay informed with the latest global news and insights.
- Specially Curated Listicles – Discover interesting lists, guides, and deep dives selected for our readers.
- Stay Updated: Join our mailing list and never miss the latest articles and updates from NRTC.
Six-match suspension
UEFA’s six-match suspension includes a one-match provisional ban already served in the second leg, with three matches suspended for two years. Prestianni will serve two more games unless he commits another offence during the probationary period. UEFA has requested FIFA extend the ban worldwide, which would apply to any Argentina matches at the 2026 World Cup.
Article 14 of UEFA’s disciplinary regulations prescribes a minimum 10-match suspension for discrimination. UEFA declined to explain why Prestianni received a lesser punishment.
The decision can be appealed within three days. Benfica sources have indicated they do not intend to appeal.
