FIFA extends the Prestianni ban worldwide and threatens a World Cup debut

Argentina winger Gianluca Prestianni is facing the prospect of missing his country’s opening World Cup matches after FIFA on Wednesday extended his six-match ban for homophobic behavior with global repercussions.

The Benfica player was banned by UEFA following allegations that he used a slur on Vinicius Jr. of Real Madrid during the Champions League play-off match in February, which Real won 1-0.

“FIFA’s disciplinary committee has decided to extend the six-match ban imposed by UEFA on SL Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni so that it has a global effect,” a FIFA spokesperson told Reuters.

“The sanction has been extended in accordance with Article 70 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.”

The global extension, requested by UEFA, means Prestianni would miss Argentina’s first two World Cup matches if selected.

The ban covers UEFA club competition matches or competitive international matches, but not friendly matches or domestic league matches.

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UEFA originally imposed the six-match ban for discriminatory behaviour, with three matches suspended for a probationary period. Prestianni had already served a provisional one-match ban when he missed the second leg against Real Madrid.

However, the 20-year-old has limited international experience and has made just one appearance for Argentina as a late substitute in the friendly against Angola in November.

Argentina opens its World Cup campaign on June 16 against Group J opponents Algeria before taking on Austria and Jordan.

Published on May 6, 2026