BY JUDE MADUEKE—Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni has been suspended for six matches by UEFA after finding him guilty of using a homophobic slur toward Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League knockout play-off match in Lisbon on 17 February.
The incident occurred during a heated on-field exchange that led to Vinícius briefly leaving the pitch and refusing to continue, causing a short stoppage in play. While the Brazilian initially alleged racial abuse, UEFA’s investigation concluded the remark was homophobic rather than racist.
A disciplinary investigator reviewed the case and confirmed Prestianni’s conduct breached UEFA rules on discriminatory behaviour. The player reportedly told officials he used a homophobic term during the confrontation.
Of the six-game ban, three matches are suspended for two years, meaning they will only be enforced if there is another offence. One match has already been counted as served, leaving him with two immediate games to miss.
The case has also prompted discussions within football governance circles, with IFAB expected to consider possible rule changes regarding players covering their mouths during disputes. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has also argued that concealed speech linked to discrimination should carry strict punishment.
UEFA reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on abuse, stressing that discriminatory language has no place in football. The decision is part of wider efforts to combat misconduct in the sport, which has repeatedly affected Vinícius Júnior in recent seasons, while Benfica and Prestianni have yet to issue a detailed response.
