Tensions flared during Real Madrid’s 1-0 Champions League playoff win over Benfica as Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr accused Gianluca Prestianni of a racist remark. Mbappe demanded the Argentine winger be banned from Europe’s premier competition.
The incident occurred shortly after Vinicius curled Real Madrid into the lead five minutes into the second half. Television footage showed Prestianni covering his mouth with his shirt before making a comment that Vinicius and nearby teammates interpreted as a racial slur.
Referee Francois Letexier halted the match for 11 minutes, activating FIFA’s anti-racism protocols. Mbappe appeared visibly outraged, confronting Prestianni on the pitch and calling him "a bloody racist."
Despite the tense atmosphere, the match resumed without further interruptions, though both Vinicius and Mbappe were loudly booed by the home crowd whenever they touched the ball.
Prestianni denies allegations
Prestianni took to Instagram to deny the accusation, insisting that Vinicius had misheard him.
“At no time did I direct racist insults to Vini Jr, who regrettably misunderstood what he thought he heard,” Prestianni wrote. “I was never racist with anyone and I regret the threats I received from Real Madrid players.”
Mbappe calls for action
Mbappe told reporters he heard the same remark directed at Vinicius multiple times, echoing concerns raised by Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouamen.
“We cannot accept that there is a player in Europe's top football competition who behaves like this. This guy doesn’t deserve to play in the Champions League anymore,” Mbappe said.
He added, “We have to set an example for all the children watching us at home. What happened today is the kind of thing we cannot accept because the world is watching us.”
When asked if Prestianni had apologized, Mbappe laughed. “Of course not,” he replied.
Vinicius speaks out
Vinicius Jr also addressed the incident on social media, emphasizing the cowardice behind racist behaviour.
“Racists are, above all, cowards. They need to cover their mouth with their shirt to show how weak they are,” Vinicius wrote. “But they have the protection of others who, theoretically, have an obligation to punish them. Nothing that happened today is new in my life or my family's life.”
The Brazilian has faced repeated racist abuse in Spain, with 18 legal complaints filed against such behaviour since 2022.
Next Clash: Real Madrid vs Benfica
The two sides will meet again for the second leg next Wednesday at the Bernabeu. Fans and players alike will watch closely to see whether UEFA takes any disciplinary action against Prestianni before the return fixture.
