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UEFA Upholds Provisional Ban on Benfica’s Prestianni as Racism Probe Continues

The appeal’s rejection means he misses the return leg during an ongoing UEFA inquiry.

Overview

  • UEFA confirmed the provisional suspension remains in force, ruling Gianluca Prestianni out of the Champions League second leg at the Bernabéu.
  • The investigation could lead to a minimum 10-match ban if discriminatory language is proven under UEFA’s Article 14 rules.
  • Prestianni posted a message on X attacking UEFA’s handling of the case and later deleted it, according to Portuguese outlet Record.
  • Benfica team-mate Dodi Lukebakio said he does not know the facts but would not accept proven racist conduct and expects consequences if confirmed.
  • Football España, citing The Times, reported that Prestianni’s defence will claim Vinícius Júnior insulted his height and that Prestianni told investigators he used a homophobic slur, assertions not yet confirmed within the formal process.