Report: Prestianni Gives Evidence in UEFA Probe Into Alleged Abuse of Vinícius Jr

UEFA’s disciplinary investigators have formally opened proceedings into the flashpoint that marred Real Madrid’s 1–0 Champions League playoff victory over Benfica at the Estádio da Luz, with Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni already submitting testimony, ESPN reports.

The incident occurred moments after Vinícius Jr netted the decisive goal in the second half. The Brazilian forward immediately alerted match officials to alleged racist abuse, triggering a ten-minute stoppage while the referee crew attempted to defuse the situation.

According to ESPN, Prestianni has categorically denied using the Spanish word “mono” (“monkey”), insisting instead that he directed an anti-gay slur at Vinícius. Sources close to the investigation say the Argentine told UEFA the remark was homophobic, not racist.

Real Madrid midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni corroborated that version after the final whistle, telling Spanish journalists that Prestianni, when challenged on the pitch, admitted to homophobic language while denying any racial element.

Real Madrid have since delivered a comprehensive evidence dossier to European football’s governing body, described as containing every piece of material currently at the club’s disposal.

France captain Kylian Mbappé was unequivocal in his post-match comments, stating he personally heard racist language aimed at his teammate. “I heard it,” Mbappé said. “There are Benfica players that also heard it.” He added that the alleged word was repeated several times during the exchange.

Head coach Álvaro Arbeloa called on UEFA to act decisively, expressing hope that the case could become a watershed moment in the fight against discrimination across the continent.

Article 14 of UEFA’s disciplinary code covers both racist and homophobic insults under the same clause, mandating a minimum ten-match suspension or “any other appropriate sanction” for anyone found to have “insulted the human dignity of a person or group of persons on whatever grounds, including skin colour, race, religion, ethnic origin, gender or sexual orientation.”

UEFA is expected to review Prestianni’s testimony alongside Real Madrid’s file before determining whether formal charges will be brought.