More than three months after the controversy that drew global attention, Gianluca Prestianni has received a significant sanction from UEFA following his altercation with Vinícius Júnior during the Champions League clash between Benfica and Real Madrid.
After an investigation led by UEFA’s Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector—reviewing footage, testimonies, and statements from both players—the governing body issued a six-match suspension to the Argentine winger for what it described as “discriminatory conduct.” According to the official report, three matches are to be served immediately, while the remaining three are suspended over a two-year probation period.
The case had initially sparked widespread accusations of racism, with claims that Prestianni directed offensive language toward Vinícius. However, UEFA’s final ruling categorized the offense as discriminatory conduct of a homophobic nature. The decision marks a serious disciplinary outcome for the former Vélez player, who had denied all accusations and insisted he was punished “without evidence.”
One of the matches has already been served during Benfica’s return leg against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu in February. That leaves Prestianni with two remaining matches to serve in UEFA competitions—for now.
The situation could escalate further. UEFA has formally requested that FIFA extend the suspension worldwide, which would include international fixtures. If approved, the sanction could directly impact Prestianni’s chances of representing Argentina at the 2026 World Cup, should Lionel Scaloni consider him for the squad.
Within AFA, there were initial discussions about having the player serve part of the suspension during upcoming friendlies against Honduras and Iceland in June. However, those matches would not count toward the ban, as they are not official competitions.
Prestianni still has legal avenues available. He can appeal the decision through UEFA’s Appeals Body and, if necessary, take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport in an attempt to obtain a provisional measure that would allow him to remain eligible for international duty.
