UEFA bans Benfica’s Prestianni for six matches over homophobic slur directed at Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior

Suara Pecari – 25 April 2026 | UEFA announced on Tuesday that Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni received a six‑match suspension for homophobic conduct aimed at Real Madrid winger Vinícius Júnior. The sanction was issued after a disciplinary panel reviewed the incident that occurred during the Champions League playoff on 17 February in Lisbon.

Video footage captured Prestianni covering his mouth with his shirt while directing the slur “maricas” at the Brazilian forward. Vinícius temporarily left the pitch, prompting a ten‑minute interruption while officials attended to the matter.

The UEFA Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body classified the offense as homophobic rather than racist, invoking Article 14 of the federation’s disciplinary regulations. Under the standard framework such conduct would normally merit a ten‑match ban.

The panel reduced the penalty to six matches, with three of those suspended for a two‑year period provided the player complies with future conduct rules. Prestianni has already served a one‑match provisional ban, leaving two effective matches to be served in UEFA competitions.

UEFA also signaled its intention to request FIFA to extend the suspension to international fixtures, meaning the Argentine international could miss the first two games of the upcoming World Cup. The extension would apply to any FIFA‑sanctioned competition, including Argentina’s qualifiers.

Benfica issued an official statement confirming receipt of the UEFA decision and reiterating its commitment to respect and inclusion. The club noted that the suspended portion of the ban reflects the player’s acceptance of responsibility.

In response, the Portuguese side clarified that the sanction does not affect domestic league matches, only European and potential international appearances. Benfica added that it will monitor the player’s behavior closely to avoid further infractions.

Vinícius Júnior later told reporters that he felt targeted by a derogatory comment and that the interruption disrupted his focus. He emphasized the importance of zero tolerance for any form of discrimination on the field.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino commented on the broader implications of the case, urging that players who cover their mouths while uttering abusive language should be shown a red card. He argued that presumption of wrongdoing should guide referees in such situations.

The incident is expected to be discussed at the upcoming IFAB meeting in Canada, where officials will consider rule changes concerning verbal abuse concealed by gestures. Analysts suggest that clearer guidelines could empower referees to act swiftly.

Experts note that the six‑match sanction aligns with recent trends toward stricter penalties for homophobic remarks in European football. UEFA’s disciplinary code has been amended in recent years to address a wider spectrum of discriminatory behavior.

The case also revives debate over the adequacy of existing sanctions for racism versus homophobia, with some observers arguing that the two should be treated equally. Advocacy groups have welcomed the decisive action but call for consistent application.

Prestianni, a 22‑year‑old Argentine who joined Benfica last season, will miss upcoming Champions League fixtures against Manchester City and Liverpool. His absence could affect the team’s tactical options in the knockout stage.

Benfica’s coach indicated that the squad will adapt by rotating other attacking players, while stressing that the club does not condone any form of hate speech. He added that the focus remains on progressing in the competition.

The suspension arrives as Real Madrid prepares for the next round of the Champions League, with Vinícius expected to feature prominently. The Brazilian’s performance will be closely watched after the episode.

The broader football community has reacted on social media, with many praising UEFA’s swift response and others urging further education programs for players. Several clubs announced internal workshops on diversity and inclusion.

As the disciplinary process concludes, the incident underscores the sport’s ongoing struggle to eradicate discrimination. UEFA’s decision and the pending IFAB discussion signal a commitment to reinforce respectful conduct on the pitch.

The case will also be monitored by anti‑discrimination NGOs, which plan to submit a joint report to FIFA before the next international window. Their goal is to ensure that similar incidents receive consistent penalties.

In sum, the six‑match ban, partially suspended, represents both punishment for Prestianni’s conduct and a warning to all players that homophobic language will not be tolerated. The outcome will influence future disciplinary standards across European football.