Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has been handed a six-match ban by UEFA following an investigation into discriminatory conduct during a Champions L
Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has been handed a six-match ban by UEFA following an investigation into discriminatory conduct during a Champions League knockout play-off against Real Madrid on February 17, 2026.
The incident, which occurred at the Estádio da Luz, resulted in the match being stopped for 10 minutes after Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior reported being verbally abused. While initially accused of racism,
UEFA’s investigation concluded that the 20-year-old Argentine player engaged in homophobic behaviour.
The suspension includes the one-match provisional ban that Prestianni served during the second leg of the tie on February 25, 2026, meaning he faces two further matches of immediate suspension, while three of the matches are suspended for a two-year probationary period.
UEFA has also requested that FIFA extend this ban globally, which could affect the player’s eligibility to feature for the Argentina national team in international competitions. Benfica has expressed support for their player, suggesting the incident was a misrepresentation of events.
Prestianni has publicly maintained his innocence regarding the accusations, claiming he was “punished without evidence” and that words used during the match were misinterpreted.
He noted that what hurt most was being accused of something he did not say, while also mentioning that his teammates and coach José Mourinho offered support behind closed doors.
The incident has highlighted ongoing tensions in European football, with FIFA considering stricter measures for incidents involving players covering their mouths during confrontations.
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