UEFA Suspends Gianluca Prestianni Over Alleged Racist Abuse Toward Vinícius Júnior

UEFA has provisionally suspended Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni following allegations of racist behaviour during a Champions League play-off clash against Real Madrid.

The interim ban means the 20-year-old will miss the second-leg fixture at the Santiago Bernabéu, dealing a blow to Benfica ahead of the decisive encounter.

Incident and Immediate Response

The complaint was lodged by Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior after he opened the scoring in the first leg at Estádio da Luz on 17 February. Television footage showed Prestianni covering his mouth with his shirt while exchanging words with the Brazilian.

Vinícius reported the incident to the referee, triggering UEFA’s anti-discrimination protocol and a 10-minute stoppage in play.

UEFA Statement

UEFA confirmed that its Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body imposed the provisional suspension after an interim report from its Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector cited a prima facie breach of Article 14 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations concerning discriminatory conduct.

The governing body emphasized that the measure is temporary and does not pre-empt the final decision once the investigation concludes.

Ongoing Investigation

UEFA stated that a full investigation is underway, with findings to be submitted to its disciplinary bodies. Portuguese authorities are also reviewing the incident.

The final ruling could carry further sporting and disciplinary consequences for both the player and Benfica. For now, Prestianni’s absence adds to the challenge facing the Portuguese side as they attempt to overturn their deficit in Madrid.