Gianluca Prestianni suspension sees Benfica winger miss crucial Champions League match vs Real Madrid over alleged discriminatory conduct

Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has been provisionally suspended for one match by UEFA 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.

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The decision, announced by UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body (CEDB), comes after an interim report from the appointed Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector.

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

The case stems from alleged 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. Vinícius Júnior publicly condemned the behaviour, stating, “Racists are, above all, cowards.”

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

A full inquiry is ongoing, with potential sanctions reportedly extending to a 10-match ban if the allegations are upheld.

Prestianni, 20, who joined Benfica from Vélez Sarsfield in 2024, has been a regular starter this season. Known for his pace, dribbling, and creativity on the right wing, his absence for the high-stakes return leg represents a significant blow for Benfica’s European ambitions.

The case underscores UEFA’s ongoing efforts to combat racism in football, especially amid repeated incidents involving Vinícius Júnior in recent seasons.

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Benfica had previously defended Prestianni, describing the claims as part of a “defamation campaign,” but UEFA’s interim measure highlights the seriousness of the allegations.