Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni Receives Six-Game Suspension for Homophobic Conduct
Benfica's Prestianni Handed Six-Game Ban For Homophobic' Insults Towards Vinicius
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Gianluca Prestianni, a winger for Benfica, has been suspended for six matches by UEFA for homophobic insults directed at Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match in February 2026. The suspension includes three immediate matches and three additional matches suspended for a two-year probationary period.
- 01Prestianni received a six-match suspension for homophobic conduct.
- 02The incident occurred during a Champions League match in February 2026.
- 03Three matches are an immediate ban, with three suspended for two years.
- 04UEFA has requested FIFA to extend the ban globally, affecting future international matches.
- 05Prestianni admitted to using a homophobic slur but denied racial abuse.
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Gianluca Prestianni, a 20-year-old winger for Benfica, has been handed a six-match suspension by UEFA for discriminatory conduct after an incident involving Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League knockout play-off match at the Estádio da Luz in February 2026. Initially accused of racism, the investigation revealed that Prestianni admitted to using a homophobic slur but denied any racial insults. The suspension comprises three immediate matches and three additional matches that are suspended for a two-year probationary period. This effectively leaves him with two matches to serve after one match has already been completed during his provisional suspension. UEFA has also requested FIFA to extend this ban to include international matches, potentially affecting Prestianni's participation in Argentina's games during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This case highlights UEFA's ongoing efforts to address discriminatory behavior in football, as they have tightened regulations in recent years, leading to varying punishments for different types of offenses.
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Prestianni's suspension could affect his career trajectory and participation in future matches, including international competitions.
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