The suspension means Prestianni is set to miss Wednesday’s second-leg match at the Bernabeu, pending the outcome of UEFA’s full investigation.
The incident occurred after Vinicius had scored for Real Madrid, celebrating in front of Benfica supporters. According to reports, Prestianni confronted the Brazilian, covering his mouth with his shirt before allegedly making a discriminatory remark. The match was temporarily halted for ten minutes as Vinicius spoke with referee Francois Letexier, activating FIFA’s anti-racism protocol. Prestianni has denied using racist language, though he reportedly admitted to UEFA that he had directed an anti-gay slur instead.
UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body stated that the provisional ban was based on a "prima facie violation" of its disciplinary regulations, adding that further punishment could follow depending on the outcome of the investigation. Benfica have confirmed they will appeal the suspension, though they acknowledge it is unlikely to affect the second-leg fixture unless the appeal is successful. The club also reaffirmed its commitment to combating all forms of racism and discrimination, citing its historical values and the legacy of figures such as Eusebio.
Meanwhile, Benfica manager Jose Mourinho will miss the second leg due to his own suspension, with assistant coach Joao Tralhao handling media duties ahead of the tie. Real Madrid star Kylian Mbappe reportedly witnessed the incident as well, adding further scrutiny to the ongoing UEFA inquiry.
Benfica have indicated they may still travel with Prestianni to Madrid in case the appeal allows him to participate, though UEFA’s provisional ruling currently bars him from playing. The full disciplinary investigation is expected to determine whether additional sanctions, including a potential multi-match ban, are warranted under UEFA rules.
Real Madrid have suffered a fresh injury setback at a crucial stage of the season, with midfielder Dani Ceballos ruled out after sustaining a muscle injury in the soleus of his right leg.
Vinicius Junior got on the scoresheet for Real Madrid but it was not enough to prevent them falling to a shock 2-1 defeat to Osasuna at Estadio El Sadar in LaLiga on Saturday.
Paris Saint-Germain have decided to end their legal battle with Kylian Mbappe after confirming they will not appeal a French labour court ruling ordering the club to pay up to 61 million euros in unpaid wages and bonuses.
Former Bafana Bafana striker Benni McCarthy believes Jose Mourinho should admit he "made a mistake" after his controversial comments following the alleged racial abuse of Vinicius Junior during Real Madrid's Champions League win over Benfica.
