Gianluca Prestianni, the Benfica midfielder accused of racially abusing Vinicius Jr during last week's Champions League clash, is reportedly claiming the Real Madrid winger referred to him as a dwarf or midget. Prestianni is alleged to have directed the word 'mono', Spanish for 'monkey', at Vinicius after the Brazilian's mocking celebration in front of the Benfica supporters. Insiders have told the newspaper that this defence will not wash as an excuse to use racist or discriminatory language. The match was delayed by 10 minutes after the allegation of racism was made by Vinicius. Club president Rui Costa also doubled down on Tuesday, calling the decision to ban Prestianni unjustified.

Source: Metro February 24, 2026 17:34 UTC