Gianluca Prestianni revealed what his said to Vinicius Jr. as investigation into racism probe intensify

Gianluca Prestianni faces a minimum 10-match ban after admitting to using a homophobic slur against Vinícius Júnior, as UEFA regulations treat racist and anti-gay abuse with identical severity.

Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni has reportedly admitted to using a homophobic slur against Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior during Tuesday’s Champions League clash.

Prestianni allegedly told UEFA investigators his comments were “only” homophobic, attempting to distance himself from accusations of racism.

The incident occurred shortly after Vinícius scored, leading referee François Letexier to activate the anti-racism protocol and halt play for ten minutes.

Despite the player’s distinction, UEFA’s Article 14 establishes a unified punishment framework for all discriminatory acts.

The regulations explicitly state that anyone insulting human dignity based on “skin colour, race, religion, ethnic origin, gender or sexual orientation” faces a minimum ten-match suspension.

Consequently, Prestianni’s admission of anti-gay abuse offers no legal loophole to reduce the mandatory disciplinary sanctions for his conduct.

The investigation looms large over the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu on February 25.

Real Madrid teammates, led by Kylian Mbappé, have publicly condemned the abuse, while Benfica manager José Mourinho has defended his player against a “smear campaign.”

As UEFA gathers evidence, the football world awaits a ruling that will reaffirm the governing body’s zero-tolerance policy regarding identity-based discrimination.