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·18 February 2026

Benfica - Real: Gianluca Prestianni makes new revelations after Vinícius controversy

Benfica - Real: Prestianni breaks his silence following the Vinícius incident

Benfica - Real: Gianluca Prestianni makes new revelations after Vinícius controversy

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The controversy sparked by Benfica vs. Real Madrid continues to escalate and now threatens to turn into a full-blown disciplinary case. Accused by Vinícius Junior of racist insults, Gianluca Prestianni has decided to speak out publicly, as the incident led to a lengthy interruption under UEFA's anti-racism protocol, plunging the Estádio da Luz into intense tension.

In a statement, the young Argentine categorically denied any wrongdoing:

I want to make it clear that at no point did I direct racist insults at Vinícius Junior, who unfortunately misinterpreted what he thought he heard. I have never been racist toward anyone.

Even more surprisingly, he claims he was then targeted himself:

And I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players.

In light of this version, Real remain firmly behind Vinícius, with several senior players insisting they heard serious remarks. Benfica, meanwhile, is trying to calm the situation, fearing their player could become the symbol of an explosive case likely to be pursued before UEFA.