Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni has been involved in a racism controversy during a Champions League match after Vinicius accused him of a racist insult, leading to a 10-minute stoppage in play.
During a Champions League match on February 17, 2026, Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni of Benfica found himself at the center of a significant controversy when Brazilian player Vinicius accused him of calling him a 'monkey'. This accusation arose shortly after Vinicius scored a stunning goal that had put Real Madrid ahead 1-0 in a tightly contested match at the Estadio da Luz. Following Vinicius's claim, referee Francois Letexier stopped the game, allowing for a lengthy examination of the incident in line with the recently adopted anti-racism protocols by FIFA and UEFA.
The incident led to a 10-minute interruption during which coaches and players from both teams engaged in heated exchanges. The referee’s actions, designed to address potential racial abuse on the field, highlight the increasing seriousness with which such allegations are being treated in modern football. This situation underscores the ongoing battle against racism in sports, as players and officials alike are becoming more vigilant in addressing discriminatory behavior.
As this story develops, it could have significant implications for both players involved, especially if further evidence is collected regarding the accusations made by Vinicius. The incident not only brings to light the importance of integrity and respect in football but also the continued necessity for stringent measures against racism within the sport.
