UEFA Suspends Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni for Six Games Over Homophobic Remark

UEFA has handed down a six-game suspension to Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni for using a homophobic slur against Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League playoff match in February.

The decision comes after UEFA’s Disciplinary and Ethics Committee determined that Prestianni engaged in discriminatory behavior during the second leg of the tie at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 19, 2026. The Argentine international had previously been accused of racial abuse following the first leg, but UEFA’s investigation concluded the offense was homophobic in nature.

According to UEFA’s statement, Prestianni directed the abusive language at Vinícius Júnior after the Brazilian scored the opening goal of the match and celebrated provocatively in front of the Benfica bench.

Although the suspension spans six matches, Prestianni will effectively serve only two additional games, as he had already missed the return leg due to a suspension incurred after the first leg. The remaining three games are suspended for two years on probation.

UEFA confirmed that the suspension applies to all competitions under its jurisdiction, including international fixtures. So the sanction could affect Prestianni’s availability for Argentina should he be selected for the upcoming FIFA World Cup in summer 2026.

The continental governing body has too requested that FIFA extend the ban globally, ensuring it would be recognized in all member associations if approved.

Prestianni initially denied allegations of racism after the first leg, stating on Instagram that he had “never been racist toward anybody.” He later admitted to using a homophobic insult during the exchange with Vinícius Júnior, explaining that he had pulled his jersey over his mouth in the heat of the moment.

Vinícius Júnior and his Real Madrid teammate Kylian Mbappé both reported hearing the discriminatory remark, prompting UEFA to launch a formal investigation. Benfica’s then-manager José Mourinho had distanced himself from the player early in the process, stating he would not select Prestianni if the allegations were proven, though he later recalled him to the squad for domestic matches.

The incident has reignited discussions about player conduct in high-stakes European matches and the effectiveness of UEFA’s anti-discrimination protocols. While the sanction sends a clear message, questions remain about whether the punishment adequately addresses the severity of the offense, particularly given the probationary nature of half the suspension.

As of April 24, 2026, Prestianni remains registered with Benfica but is unavailable for selection until his suspension is fully served. The club has not issued an official statement regarding the UEFA decision beyond acknowledging the committee’s ruling.

Archysport will continue to monitor developments regarding Prestianni’s disciplinary status and any potential FIFA endorsement of the UEFA ban.

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