Uefa has suspended Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni for six matches following an investigation into homophobic conduct. The disciplinary action relates to an incident during a Champions League knockout play-off fixture against Real Madrid in February. European football's governing body confirmed the sanction on Friday after reviewing evidence from the match, according to Sky Sports.
The 20-year-old winger will miss Benfica's next six matches in European competition as a result of the ruling. The Portuguese club currently occupies third place in the Primeira Liga table and remains in contention for continental qualification, per Reuters. Uefa officials stated the ban serves as a part of their zero-tolerance policy regarding discriminatory behaviour.
Prestianni joined the Lisbon-based side from Velez Sarsfield in 2024 and has made 12 appearances this season. Benfica representatives have not yet confirmed if the club intends to appeal the decision. The suspension takes effect immediately for all Uefa-sanctioned club fixtures, according to a report from The Athletic.
