UEFA has given Gianluca Prestianni a provisional suspension for Wednesday’s Champions League match between Benfica and Real Madrid because of claims that he harassed Vinicius Junior in a racist manner.
While an investigation into the Real Madrid forward’s alleged racism is ongoing, the 20-year-old was given a one-match suspension.
The Brazilian attacker told the referee he was subjected to racial insults, which caused the first leg of last week’s knockout round play-off at the Estadio da Luz in Portugal to be stopped for eleven minutes.
The 25-year-old was captured on camera informing French referee Francois Letexier that the Argentine had made a remark that had targeted him.
Prestianni said the Madrid player “misinterpreted what he thought he heard” and denied using a racist insult.
According to UEFA, the incident is being looked at by an ethics and disciplinary inspector and could result in additional sanctions.
Vinicius’ strike gave Real Madrid a 1-0 lead in the contest before the second leg, which infuriated the Benfica corner flag and the local players and supporters.
Vinícius accused Prestianni of calling him a “monkey” when the Argentine player challenged him.
Since there was no proof against Prestianni, who covered his lips with his jersey while speaking to Vinícius, UEFA’s anti-racism policy was triggered, but no further action was taken during the game.
Following his jubilation, the Madrid forward received a yellow card.