Gianluca Prestianni has sought to clarify the comments he allegedly directed to Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr that sparked an explosive row in the Champions League on Tuesday night. Video footage showed Vinicius and Prestianni walking towards one another, before the latter lifted his shirt over his mouth. Gianluca Prestianni has given his version of events after being accused of racismBenfica's clash with Madrid descended into chaos shortly after Vinicius Jr scored game's only goal. Madrid star Aurelien Tchouameni told the media that the Benfica star claimed he did not aim a racist slur at Vinicius, but made a homophobic remark instead. 'If they keep saying that SUPPOSEDLY I made a racist comment to Vinicius Junior, then why didn't any of them react?'

Source: Daily Mail February 18, 2026 12:44 UTC