Prestiani on the Vinícius Incident: I Was Punished without Any Evidence for Something I Didn’t Say
Prestianni says he used different insults and denies racist abuse, while UEFA’s investigation is ongoing and a final disciplinary ruling is still pending.
- On Thursday, Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni publicly denied racially abusing Real Madrid star Vinicius Junior, claiming UEFA issued a one-match suspension "without proof" following the February 17 Champions League clash.
- During the February playoff, Vinicius Junior reported a racial slur, prompting UEFA's investigation. Prestianni contends he used only cagón and maricón , which he claims are standard insults in South America.
- Under Article 14 of UEFA Disciplinary Regulations, any insult based on race or sexual orientation carries a suspension of at least 10 matches. A final verdict on Prestianni's punishment remains pending as the investigation continues.
- Benfica condemned what it termed a "smear campaign" against Prestianni; he missed the return leg after suspension, and Real Madrid won 2-1 to progress 3-1 on aggregate, eliminating Benfica.
- Focusing on his future, the 20-year-old stated he is working daily to secure a spot on Argentina's World Cup squad, expressing gratitude for support shown by his club and teammates.
29 Articles
29 Articles
Benfica star responds after Vinicius Jr racism allegation as UEFA investigation continues
Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni has spoken publicly for the first time since his controversial exchange with Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr during February's Champions League play-off, maintaining his position that he directed a homophobic insult at the Brazilian rather than a racist one.The Argentine player acknowledged using offensive language but defended his actions by claiming such terms are commonplace in his home country."Yes, yes, I he…
"Monkey, I Didn't Say That": Vinicius Racism – Prestiani's Refutation... "Disciplined Without Evidence" OSEN = Reporter Jung Seung-woo. Benfica has once again categorically denied allegations of racist remarks directed at Vinicius Junior, 26, and Real Madrid by Gianluca Prestiani (20). German sports sports
Last February, Gianluca Prestianni was accused of racism by Vinicius, during the Go League of Champions Dam between Benfica and Real Madrid (0-1).
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