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Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni is currently banned and provisionally suspended by UEFA for one match, which stems from allegations of discriminatory behaviour, specifically, an alleged racist slur directed at Real Madrid's Vinícius Junior during the first leg.
This suspension applies specifically to his side’s Champions League second-leg tie against Real Madrid. However, the winger was recently seen travelling to Madrid ahead of the return leg at the Bernabeu on Wednesday, February 25, 2026. Why did he travel when he is not allowed to play against Los Blancos in the decider?
Why did Benfica's Prestianni travel to Madrid despite being banned for second leg against Real Madrid?
Sky Sports journalist Kaveh Solhekol explained how the Benfica player, provisionally suspended by UEFA, has joined the squad's trip to Madrid for the Champions League second leg against the Spanish giants. He, during the Lunch Time live, said:
"He has flown with the Benfica squad to Madrid, even though he is suspended."
Solhekol added:
“Benfica said they were appealing against his provisional one-match suspension, although they admitted it was unlikely that the appeal would be dealt with by UEFA in time for him to have any chance of playing on Wednesday. They have taken an unusual step. There is more to it as well.”
The journalist concluded by saying:
“Could it be Benfica and Jose Mourinho sending out a message to say they are standing with their player?"
The suspension prevents the player from playing in the game, but it does not bar him from traveling with the squad or being present in Madrid.
The club included him in the traveling party, which might be a show of support. Jose Mourinho’s side strongly backs Prestianni, with president Rui Costa publicly stating that the player is "not racist."
Additionally, Prestianni has denied making a racist comment, and Benfica has appealed the provisional ban, though the tight timeline makes it unlikely to be overturned in time for him to feature on the pitch.
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