Benfica’s Prestianni Suspended for Champions League Match Following Racist Abuse Allegations
Lisbon, Portugal – Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has been suspended by UEFA for one match following allegations of racist abuse directed at Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during the first leg of their Champions League playoff tie, officials announced Monday. Prestianni will miss the return leg in Madrid this week.
The decision comes after an investigation launched following the match in Lisbon, where Vinícius Júnior reported being subjected to a racial slur – specifically, being called a “monkey” – by Prestianni as he scored the opening goal. The incident prompted the referee to initiate UEFA’s anti-racism protocol.
UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector issued an interim report leading to the suspension, citing Prestianni’s “discriminatory behavior” under Article 14 of the UEFA Disciplinary Regulations. However, the investigation remains open, and Prestianni could face further sanctions, including fines, as the process continues.
“This is understood without prejudice to any decision that the UEFA disciplinary bodies may take subsequently following the conclusion of the ongoing investigation and its respective submission to the UEFA disciplinary bodies,” a statement released by UEFA indicated.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and renewed focus on the issue of racism in football. Álvaro Arbeloa, a former Real Madrid player, emphasized the importance of addressing the situation, stating that “Everyone saw what happened on Tuesday. Everyone was watching the match and what happened. That is really important. We cannot divert the topic and we have a great opportunity to take measures so that it does not happen again.”
Benfica has announced its intention to appeal the suspension, expressing regret at being without Prestianni while the investigation is ongoing. The club reaffirmed its commitment to fighting racism and discrimination, highlighting the values of the club and the legacy of figures like Eusébio.
“Benfica also reaffirms its unwavering commitment to fighting any form of racism or discrimination, values that are part of its historical identity and are reflected in its daily action, in its global community, in the work of the Benfica Foundation and in major figures in the Club’s history, such as Eusébio,” the club stated.
The return leg will see Vinícius Júnior and Prestianni unable to face each other on the pitch, as Real Madrid seeks to defend its 1-0 advantage. The incident underscores the ongoing challenges facing football in combating racism and ensuring a safe and inclusive environment for all players.
