UEFA bans Prestianni for six games homophobic slur
SkimNews Take
The extended stoppage for Prestianni's racial abuse claim likely amplified scrutiny on his subsequent homophobic slur, leading to a more severe UEFA response than if the homophobic incident had occurred in isolation.
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- UEFA imposed a six‑match ban on Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni for homophobic conduct after the February Champions League knockout tie with Real Madrid.
- Vinicius Jr triggered a 10‑minute stoppage when he accused Prestianni of racial abuse, prompting referee François Letexier to display FIFA’s new crossed‑arms signal for racism.
- Benfica defended Prestianni, calling the allegations a “defamation campaign,” while coach Jose Mourinho warned his player’s career at the club would be over if the abuse were proven.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino announced a proposal to send off players who cover their mouths during confrontations, a move echoed by the IFAB’s review of sanction rules.
- UEFA has asked FIFA to extend Prestianni’s ban worldwide, seeking broader enforcement that will affect future European competition eligibility.
Why it matters: Benfica loses Prestianni for six matches, weakening its squad for the remainder of the Champions League and risking sponsor backlash; UEFA’s push for a worldwide ban will force stricter sanctions that reshape club revenue models.
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