UEFA rejects Benfica’s appeal against Prestianni suspension for alleged racism against Vinícius Jr

By Canadian Press on February 25, 2026.

NYON, Switzerland (AP) — UEFA has rejected Benfica’s last-minute appeal against the provisional suspension of Gianluca Prestianni, meaning he remains ruled out of the Champions League playoff second leg against Real Madrid on Wednesday.

Prestianni was provisionally suspended on Monday for one match following accusations he racially abused Vinícius Júnior in the first leg last week.

The game was halted for nearly 10 minutes after the Brazil forward scored and then celebrated by the Benfica corner flag, upsetting local fans and players. After being confronted by Prestianni, Vinícius accused the Argentine player of calling him “monkey.”

Prestianni has denied racially insulting Vinícius.

UEFA said Wednesday that its appeal body dismissed Benfica’s application against the suspension and that it confirmed the decision of its control, ethics and disciplinary body from Monday.

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The Associated Press

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