The Union of European Football Associations has officially suspended Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni from the upcoming Champions League play off second leg against Real Madrid.
The suspension follows accusations that Prestianni racially abused Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior during their last match.
The disciplinary body of the football organisation is still investigating the incident that took place during the first leg last week in Lisbon.
However, officials decided to issue a provisional suspension for the next club competition match.
The football governing body released a public statement to explain the suspension process and confirm their immediate decision.
“Following the appointment of a UEFA Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector to investigate allegations of discriminatory behaviour during the UEFA Champions League 2025/2026 Knock-out Play-off match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid CF on 17 February 2026, and upon request of the EDI with an interim report, the UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body today decided to provisionally suspend Mr. Gianluca Prestianni,” the statement read.
The organisation clarified that this action covers the next UEFA club competition match for which he is eligible.
The statement added that this decision is based on a clear violation of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations related to discriminatory behaviour.
“This is without prejudice to any ruling that the UEFA disciplinary bodies may subsequently make following the conclusion of the ongoing investigation and its respective submission to the UEFA disciplinary bodies,” the football body noted.
The controversy started during the first leg encounter on February 17, where Real Madrid secured a narrow one goal victory.
After Vinicius Junior scored, a heated confrontation occurred. The Brazilian forward accused Prestianni of covering his mouth with his shirt and directing a racist slur at him.
The referee activated the anti racism protocol of the tournament, which caused a 10 minute pause in play while officials handled the matter on the pitch. Vinicius looked reluctant to continue but eventually finished the game. He later took to social media and wrote that racists are cowards.
Prestianni could face further punishment, including a ban for several matches, depending on the final evidence. Investigators will review referee reports, match footage, and witness statements.
The Benfica player has denied making any racist remark. He claimed he used a homophobic insult in Spanish instead of a racial slur.
Benfica has expressed public support for its player, and the club is reportedly preparing arguments to challenge the suspension.
The absence of Prestianni is a major setback for the attacking plans of Benfica as they prepare for the decisive return leg in Madrid.
