UEFA slams Benfica star Prestianni with suspension over Vinícius racism storm

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

UEFA has imposed a provisional one-match suspension on Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni following allegations of discriminatory behaviour during the first leg of their UEFA Champions League knockout play-off tie against Real Madrid on February 17, 2026.

In an official statement released today, UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB) announced the decision after reviewing an interim report from the appointed Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector (EDI).

The suspension applies to Prestianni’s next UEFA club competition match for which he would otherwise be eligible, meaning the 20-year-old Argentine will miss Wednesday’s crucial second-leg decider at the Santiago Bernabéu.

The action stems from prima facie evidence of a violation of Article 14 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations, which addresses discriminatory behaviour.

The allegations involve racist abuse directed at Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior during the match at Estádio da Luz.

The incident reportedly prompted a 10-minute halt under FIFA’s anti-racism protocol, after which Vinícius publicly condemned the behaviour, stating, “Racists are, above all, cowards.”

UEFA emphasized that the provisional suspension is a precautionary measure and “without prejudice to any ruling that the UEFA disciplinary bodies may subsequently make following the conclusion of the ongoing investigation.”

A full inquiry continues, with potential for a more severe sanction, reports suggest up to a 10-match ban, if the allegations are upheld.

Prestianni, a highly rated right winger who joined Benfica from Vélez Sarsfield in early 2024 for a reported €9 million (plus add-ons), has been a regular starter this season.

The young talent, born January 31, 2006, in Ciudadela, Argentina, brings pace, dribbling, and creativity to Benfica’s attack, but his absence for the high-stakes return leg against Real Madrid represents a significant blow for the Portuguese side in their bid to advance in Europe’s premier club competition.

The case highlights UEFA’s ongoing commitment to combating racism in football, especially amid repeated incidents involving Vinícius Júnior in recent seasons.

Benfica had previously defended Prestianni, dismissing the claims and suggesting a “defamation campaign,” but the governing body’s swift interim action underscores the seriousness of the matter.