UEFA has provisionally suspended Gianluca Prestianni ahead of the second leg of the Champions League knockout play-off between Benfica and Real Madrid as reported by fabrizo Romano via their official x handle.
Romano posted;
“BREAKING: Gianluca Prestianni will NOT play against Real Madrid, suspended by UEFA.
Provisional suspension has been notified to Benfica today while investigation for the racism case with Vinicius Jr continues.
The decision follows allegations of racist abuse directed at Vinícius Júnior during the first leg in Lisbon, where play was halted for 10 minutes amid crowd unrest.
Prestianni reportedly denies using racist language, claiming instead that he used a homophobic insult. However, under Article 14 of UEFA’s disciplinary regulations, both racist and homophobic abuse carry a minimum 10-match suspension if proven.
Benfica have indicated their intention to appeal, though a resolution before the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu appears unlikely.
On the pitch, Real Madrid hold a 1–0 advantage after Vinícius scored the decisive goal in the first leg. The Brazilian’s celebration was met with boos and objects thrown from sections of the home crowd, sparking widespread condemnation.
Softfootball reported that Madrid supporters and teammates have since rallied behind him, reinforcing a message of unity.
Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa strongly defended his player, stating he was proud of the team’s solidarity and insisting that “nothing justifies a racist act.” He also dismissed criticism of Vinícius’ celebration, describing it as a natural reaction to a fantastic goal.
As the decisive second leg approaches, the focus now shifts to both football and accountability, with UEFA’s investigation set to determine the next steps.
