UEFA hands Benfica’s Prestianni six-game ban for homophobic slurs in Real Madrid clash

Abdullateef Fowewe

UEFA has imposed a six-game ban on Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni following homophobic insults directed during a Champions League match against Real Madrid, with part of the suspension already lifted.

The 20-year-old Argentine talent, who has emerged as a key prospect for the Portuguese club, faced disciplinary action after an investigation confirmed his use of homophobic language.

Prestianni denied accusations of racism leveled by Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior but admitted to the slurs, triggering UEFA’s Article 14 rules, which treat such offenses with the same severity as discriminatory conduct.

The ban, partly suspended, will sideline Prestianni for a mix of league and European fixtures, dealing a blow to Benfica as they manage the fallout from their promising star’s on-pitch behaviour.

Prestianni, who joined Benfica from Velez Sarsfield last year, has shown flair on the wing but now faces a critical period of reflection amid heightened scrutiny on player conduct.