The Decision That Changes Everything

The controversy between Vinicius Jr. and Gianluca Prestianni now carries immediate consequences. UEFA officially announced that Benfica’s appeal against the provisional suspension was rejected.

The statement leaves little room for interpretation: the UEFA Appeals Body dismissed the club’s request and upheld the February 23, 2026 ruling from the Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body. In practical terms, Prestianni remains suspended.

He Will Not Play at the Bernabéu

The ruling confirms that the Argentine winger will not be eligible for Benfica’s next UEFA club competition match — meaning he is officially ruled out of the clash at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Although Prestianni traveled to Madrid with the squad, he will not be included in the matchday roster. It remains unclear whether he will attend the game from the stands, but one thing is certain: he will not step onto the field.

A Case That Escalated Quickly

The provisional suspension stems from the heated exchange in Lisbon involving Vinicius Jr., which sparked multiple accusations and an ongoing UEFA investigation.

Prestianni denied making any racist remarks and, according to reports, claimed internally that Vinicius insulted him first. Despite those competing versions, UEFA chose to maintain the precautionary measure while the investigation continues.

Maximum Tension for the Return Leg

The second leg in Madrid was already set to be emotionally charged. Now, the atmosphere shifts once again. What was expected to be a hostile reception for the Argentine winger will instead unfold without him on the pitch.

Meanwhile, figures such as José Mourinho, also suspended in a separate matter, are expected to be present at the stadium. But the spotlight will no longer be on a direct on-field confrontation.

The investigation remains open. What is definitive is that Prestianni will not be part of the chapter written in Madrid.

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