Benfica’s Prestianni Suspended by UEFA Amid Racism Allegations

Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni has been provisionally suspended by UEFA following accusations of racially abusing Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during their Champions League playoff match on February 17, 2026. The suspension will observe Prestianni miss Wednesday’s second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu.

UEFA Investigation and Provisional Suspension

The suspension stems from an investigation initiated after Vinícius Júnior alleged that Prestianni used racist language towards him during the first leg match in Lisbon. UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) requested the provisional suspension, citing a potential violation of Article 14 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations (DR), which concerns discriminatory behavior. The Guardian reported the news on February 23, 2026.

UEFA clarified that this decision does not preclude further deliberation by its disciplinary bodies once the investigation is complete. The New York Times detailed the process.

Benfica’s Response

Benfica expressed regret over being without Prestianni for the second leg and announced its intention to appeal the suspension. Though, the club acknowledged that the timing makes it unlikely the appeal will affect Prestianni’s availability for the match in Madrid. The Guardian published Benfica’s official statement.

The club reaffirmed its commitment to combating racism and discrimination, highlighting these values as integral to its history and identity.

The Incident in Lisbon

The incident occurred after Vinícius Júnior scored the game’s only goal at Estádio da Luz. He reported to referee François Letexier that Prestianni had called him a racial slur while covering his mouth with his shirt. ESPN provided details of the events.

The referee activated the racism protocol, halting play for approximately ten minutes amid confusion and confrontation between the teams. Kylian Mbappé reportedly heard the Benfica player utilize the slur five times, according to ESPN.

Potential Penalties

If found guilty of racism, Prestianni could face a ban of up to ten matches. The Guardian reported on the potential severity of the punishment.

Previous Statements

Following the match, Prestianni reportedly told teammates he used an anti-gay slur, rather than a racial one, when confronting Vinícius Júnior. Aurélien Tchouaméni of Real Madrid relayed this explanation to Spanish television after the game. ESPN covered this development.