Prestianni denies racist insult in Benfica v Real Madrid dispute

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·18 February 2026

Prestianni denies racist insult in Benfica v Real Madrid dispute

Gianluca Prestianni has denied making racist insults during Benfica’s 0-1 defeat to Real Madrid, saying Vinícius Jr misheard him and claiming he was threatened by Madrid players.

According to Glorioso 1904, the Benfica midfielder issued his denial on Instagram, adding that he has never been racist towards anyone and regretting the threats he says he received.

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The flashpoint followed minutes after the Brazilian scored. Following celebrations viewed as provocative, the number seven exchanged words with Prestianni, then went to referee François Letexier to allege the Argentine had called him “monkey”.

After the match, Vinícius used Instagram to accuse Prestianni of cowardice and to criticise UEFA’s protocol. He also questioned a yellow card shown to him for his goal celebration.

The tie was the first leg of the play-off for a place in the Champions League last 16.

Source: Glorioso 1904