Gianluca Prestianni has already appeared before UEFA officials as part of the organisation’s investigation into alleged abuse directed at Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior, according to sources with knowledge of the process.
The case centres on accusations that Prestianni used offensive language toward Vinícius during a recent European club fixture, prompting UEFA to open formal disciplinary proceedings.
Sources said Prestianni told UEFA that he directed an anti-gay slur at Vinícius Jr. during the match.
The governing body is reviewing his statement alongside video, audio, and match reports as it seeks to determine the full context of the exchange and whether further disciplinary action is warranted under its regulations covering discriminatory or offensive conduct.
UEFA’s investigation follows increased scrutiny on player behaviour and language on the pitch, particularly in high-profile European competitions.
The organisation’s disciplinary code includes specific provisions covering discriminatory, insulting, or abusive remarks, and sanctions can range from fines and suspensions for players to partial stadium closures or other penalties for clubs, depending on the findings.
The incident involving Prestianni and Vinícius Jr. has drawn attention because it touches on two sensitive areas frequently addressed by football authorities: homophobic language and racist abuse.
While the current inquiry is focused on the anti-gay slur that sources say Prestianni acknowledged using in his testimony, it was initially triggered by allegations of racist abuse made in the aftermath of the match.
UEFA has not yet released public details of the evidence gathered or the full scope of the charges under review.
Vinícius Jr., a Brazil international and key figure for Real Madrid, has been at the centre of repeated discussions about discriminatory behaviour in football, especially in European competitions and domestic league play.
His experiences have prompted broader debate within the sport about how governing bodies, clubs, and players respond to offensive language and discriminatory incidents during matches.
As of now, UEFA has not confirmed a timeline for the conclusion of the investigation or for any potential disciplinary hearing.
No official verdict or sanction has been announced, and the case remains under active review. Until UEFA issues a formal statement, the specific disciplinary articles that may apply and the range of possible penalties for Prestianni and any involved clubs remain undetermined.
