Prestianni gives evidence in UEFA probe into alleged Vinícius abuse

• Benfica winger denies racial insult and says he used a homophobic slur instead
• Real Madrid submit full evidence dossier to UEFA as investigation continues
• Mbappé and Tchouaméni both say they heard racist language during the incident

Gianluca Prestianni has already provided evidence to UEFA as part of its investigation into the alleged racist abuse of Vinícius Júnior during Real Madrid Champions League playoff win at Benfica, sources have told ESPN.

European football governing body UEFA opened a formal inquiry following an incident in the second half of Tuesday’s match at the Estadio da Luz in Lisbon. Vinícius scored the only goal of the game before confronting Prestianni, accusing the Benfica winger of racially abusing him while covering his face with his shirt. The exchange led to a lengthy stoppage of around ten minutes before play resumed.

Sources close to the investigation say the 20 year-old Argentine has told UEFA that he did not use the Spanish word for monkey, which is commonly associated with racist abuse. Instead, Prestianni claims he used an anti gay slur, insisting there was no racial intent behind his words.

Immediately after the match, Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni confirmed that Prestianni had offered that explanation when challenged on the pitch. Madrid have since submitted what they describe as a full dossier of all available evidence to UEFA as part of the disciplinary process.

Kylian Mbappé also gave a detailed account of the incident following the game, stating he personally heard racial abuse directed at Vinícius on multiple occasions.

“I heard it,” Mbappé said. “There are Benfica players that also heard it.”

Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa has called for firm action, describing the case as an opportunity for football to take a decisive stand against discrimination. Speaking at a news conference on Friday, he said he hoped the outcome could become a turning point in the wider fight against racism within the sport.

UEFA disciplinary regulations make no distinction between racist and homophobic abuse when it comes to sanctions. Article 14 states that any individual or entity found to have insulted the dignity of a person or group on grounds including race, religion, ethnic origin, gender or sexual orientation faces a suspension of at least ten matches or an equivalent sanction.

The investigation is ongoing, with UEFA expected to determine whether further disciplinary measures will follow based on the evidence submitted by both clubs and match officials.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

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