The decision following an alleged discriminatory remark directed at Vinícius Júnior during the first leg in Lisbon, announced on February 23, 2026, rules the 19 year old out of Wednesday’s return fixture at the Santiago Bernabéu, pending the outcome of a full disciplinary investigation.
Incident at Estádio da Luz
The controversy stems from an incident in the 50th minute of the first leg at Estádio da Luz on February 17. Moments after Vinícius Júnior scored the only goal of the match with a curling strike, Prestianni confronted the Brazilian forward.
Television footage showed the Benfica winger covering his mouth with his shirt while speaking toward Vinícius. Referee François Letexier halted play for 11 minutes, activating FIFA’s anti racism protocol. The match eventually resumed, with Real Madrid holding on for a 1-0 victory.
Tensions escalated further when Kylian Mbappé confronted Prestianni after play restarted, reportedly accusing him of racism multiple times.
UEFA Cites Article 14
UEFA’s Control, Ethics and Disciplinary Body imposed the one match suspension on what it described as a prima facie violation of Article 14 of its Disciplinary Regulations, which addresses racist and discriminatory conduct.
The governing body confirmed that an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector has been appointed to conduct a full investigation. The provisional ban does not preclude additional sanctions. If found guilty, Prestianni could face a longer suspension.
UEFA also indicated that Benfica could face separate disciplinary measures if incidents involving objects thrown at Real Madrid players are determined to constitute fan misconduct. Potential sanctions in such cases include partial stadium closures or fines.
High Stakes in Madrid
The ruling adds further tension to an already finely balanced tie. Real Madrid carry a narrow 1-0 advantage into the second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, with progression to the next stage of the competition at stake.
For Benfica, the absence of a starting winger limits attacking options in a match that demands urgency. For UEFA, the case represents another high profile test of its stated zero tolerance approach to racism in European football.
The investigation’s outcome will determine whether the provisional suspension stands alone or becomes part of a broader disciplinary action.
