Prestianni suspended for homophobic discriminatory conduct in Champions League match in opposition to Actual Madrid in February.
Printed On 24 Apr 2026
Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni has been handed a six-match suspension for discriminatory conduct that was deemed homophobic in a Champions League match in opposition to Actual Madrid, UEFA introduced.
Prestianni will likely be banned for 2 extra matches after UEFA stated on Friday {that a} additional three-match suspension could be “topic to a probationary interval of two years, ranging from the date of the current resolution”. He has already served a one-match provisional suspension.
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The Argentinian winger was accused of directing a racist slur at Actual Madrid ahead Vinicius Jr through the Spanish facet’s 1-0 Champions League playoff first-leg win in February.
The primary leg was suspended for 11 minutes shortly after Vinicius gave Actual the lead early within the second half.
Tv footage confirmed Prestianni masking his mouth along with his shirt repeatedly earlier than making feedback that Vinicius and close by teammates interpreted as a racial slur in opposition to the 25-year-old.
Prestianni had denied the accusation that he had made a racist remark, saying Vinicius had misheard him. Actual’s Aurelien Tchouameni stated the Argentinian advised him he didn’t name Vinicius a “monkey” however directed a homophobic remark at him.
UEFA additionally stated they’d request FIFA to increase the suspension worldwide.
The suspension consists of the one-match provisional suspension Prestianni served through the second leg of their knockout playoff on February 25, which Actual Madrid gained 2-1 to advance.
Benfica stated they’d been notified concerning the sanction imposed on Prestianni.
“Of the three-match efficient ban, one has already been served and the remaining two have to be served in UEFA matches or Argentina nationwide staff matches in a FIFA context,” Benfica stated.
Prestianni has performed for Argentina solely as soon as, making his debut as a late substitute in a pleasant sport in opposition to Angola in November.
