UEFA has handed a six-match suspension to Gianluca Prestianni following an incident described as racist during his team Benfica’s clash with Real Madrid in the Champions League last February.
The decision came after an investigation was opened in response to allegations from Brazilian star Vinicius Junior, who said he was subjected to racially abusive behavior by the Argentine player.
Although Prestianni denied using racist language, he had already been provisionally suspended and missed the return leg of the playoff tie.
UEFA stated in its official ruling that the sanction includes a six-match ban from European competitions at both the club and international levels.
However, three of those matches will be suspended for a probationary period of two years.
The governing body also noted that one of the matches has already been served, referring to the fixture between the two teams on February 25, 2026.
UEFA confirmed it will request FIFA to extend the ban worldwide, ensuring it applies across all domestic and international competitions.
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