Gianluca Prestianni Suspended for Real Madrid Clash Amid Racism Allegations

Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni will miss Wednesday’s Champions League second leg against Real Madrid after being provisionally suspended by UEFA following allegations of racist language directed towards Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior.

Suspension Confirmed, Appeal Rejected

UEFA confirmed the suspension on Wednesday, just hours before the match at the Santiago Bernabéu, and announced that Benfica’s appeal against the decision was unsuccessful. Prestianni was part of the Benfica delegation that traveled to Madrid and participated in training at the Bernabéu on Tuesday, but will not be eligible to play in the crucial match. ESPN and Sporting News both reported on the confirmation of the suspension.

The Allegations and Initial Response

The allegations stem from the first leg of the Champions League knockout playoff on February 17, 2026, where Vinícius Júnior accused Prestianni of using a racist insult after scoring a goal. The incident led to a 10-minute stoppage as the anti-racism protocol was activated. Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius’s Real Madrid teammate, too claimed to have heard the abuse. The Independent details the events surrounding the initial accusation.

Prestianni’s Defense and UEFA Investigation

Prestianni initially admitted to using an “anti-gay” slur, but denied using racist language, claiming Vinícius Júnior misheard him. However, UEFA has launched a full investigation into the allegations. If found guilty of racial abuse, Prestianni could face a ban of up to 10 games under UEFA’s disciplinary code. ESPN reported on the potential length of the ban.

What’s Next for Prestianni and Benfica

The one-game suspension currently applies only to the second leg against Real Madrid. Prestianni will be eligible to return for Benfica’s league match against Barcelos on Monday. If Benfica advances to the round of 16 of the Champions League, Prestianni will be available for selection. Sporting News provides details on his immediate availability after the suspension.

A UEFA statement read: “Following the appointment of a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector (EDI) to investigate allegations of discriminatory behaviour…the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) today decided to provisionally suspend Mr. Gianluca Prestianni for the next (1) UEFA club competition match…”