Gianluca Prestiani has been suspended for six games by UEFA for “discriminatory, i.e. homophobic, conduct”. The decision was announced by the European governing body’s Administration, Ethics and Disciplinary Committee on Friday, after it launched an investigation into Benfica’s players over an incident during a youth league game against Real Madrid on February 17. UEFA has asked FIFA to extend the suspension worldwide, as the player may not be able to participate in the World Cup.
The file was made public after an investigation by UEFA Ethics and Discipline Inspectors, which flagged possible discriminatory behavior by Argentine footballers at the Lisbon club. After considering the matter, the CEDB decided to impose a six-game suspension from official UEFA club and national team matches, provided the player is eligible to participate.
subtle punishment
However, there are important caveats to the suspension. Three of the six games will have a two-year trial period from the date of their decision. In other words, Prestiani will essentially have to play in three games unless he commits the offense again within that period.
UEFA further revealed that the global sanction includes a provisional suspension for the player, who had already played in the Champions League 2025/26 play-off match between Real Madrid and Benfica on February 25.
The European body has also called on FIFA to extend the sanctions globally, which could extend the scope of disciplinary action beyond competitions directly sponsored by UEFA.
