UEFA has handed a provisional one-match suspension to Gianluca Prestianni, ruling him out of the upcoming Champions League fixture at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. The decision stems from an ongoing investigation into alleged discriminatory behavior during last week’s match between SL Benfica and Real Madrid CF.

According to UEFA’s official statement, an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector was appointed to examine the case. Based on a preliminary report, the Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body decided to impose a temporary suspension on the player for a potential breach of Article 14 of UEFA’s Disciplinary Regulations, which addresses discriminatory conduct.

Article 14 establishes that any player, coach, or official who insults human dignity on the basis of race, skin color, religion, ethnic origin, gender, or sexual orientation faces a minimum ban of ten matches if found guilty. Additional sanctions may include fines or restrictions from football-related activities.

The controversy erupted after Vinícius Júnior accused Prestianni of calling him “mono” during the match. Referee François Letexier reportedly activated the anti-racism protocol. While Prestianni denied the accusation internally, UEFA determined there were sufficient prima facie indications to justify a precautionary measure while the investigation continues.

Benfica expressed strong dissatisfaction with the ruling and confirmed it will appeal, though it admitted the timing makes it unlikely the sanction will be lifted before the decisive second leg. The provisional suspension does not constitute a final verdict. However, it signals that UEFA considers the allegations serious enough to temporarily sideline the player while the disciplinary process runs its course.

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