FIFA has confirmed a worldwide suspension for Gianluca Prestianni, meaning the Argentina international winger could miss two matches at the 2026 World Cup in the United States if selected for the squad. The decision follows a six-match ban imposed by UEFA two weeks ago after the Benfica player verbally abused Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League clash against Real Madrid.
Prestianni had covered his mouth with his shirt while making the remark. "The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has decided to extend the six-match ban imposed by UEFA on Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni to have worldwide effect," FIFA said in a statement.
UEFA investigated allegations that Prestianni used a racist insult toward Vinícius, claims supported by Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappé. The Argentine denied using racist language but admitted making an anti-gay slur. UEFA said it could not prove the alleged racist insult involving the Spanish word for "monkey," but still sanctioned the player over abusive language.
Prestianni has already served one match of the suspension after missing Benfica's Champions League playoff second leg against Real Madrid in February. If included in Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni's World Cup squad, the 20-year-old would miss Argentina's opening group games against Algeria and Austria. Argentina begin their title defence against Algeria on June 17 in Kansas City before facing Austria in Arlington, Texas. The group also includes Jordan, who are making their World Cup debut.
Prestianni has made only one appearance for Argentina so far, coming in a friendly last November. He was also an unused substitute in a recent World Cup warm-up match against Zambia. When Scaloni selected Prestianni for March friendlies, he did not address the UEFA investigation, only noting that Paulo Dybala was unavailable.
Last week, football lawmakers approved a new rule ahead of the World Cup making it a red card offence for players to cover their mouths while insulting opponents. The change was passed by the International Football Association Board. If Prestianni is not selected for Argentina's World Cup squad, the remainder of the suspension will instead be served in UEFA competitions next season.
