FIFA has confirmed a worldwide extension of the six-match ban initially imposed by UEFA on Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni, a decision that could significantly impact the 20-year-old’s eligibility for Argentina ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The disciplinary action stems from Prestianni verbally abusing Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior during a match, an incident where the Argentine covered his mouth while speaking. While an initial investigation explored allegations of racist language, UEFA ultimately could not prove racism, confirming instead that the ban was for homophobic abuse.
The global extension was announced on Wednesday, as reported by ESPN (UK), with a FIFA statement clarifying the decision: “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has decided to extend the six-match ban imposed by UEFA on Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni to have worldwide effect.” The ban comprises three games, with a further three deferred on probation.
Global reach of the ban and missed matches
Prestianni has already served one match of his suspension, missing the second leg of Benfica’s tie against Real Madrid. This means he is still required to sit out two more UEFA or FIFA sanctioned matches. Crucially, the ban does not apply to Portuguese league fixtures or friendly club matches, focusing instead on competitive international or continental club games.
Read also: Ousmane Dembele chasing the Ballon d'Or: elite or overrated?
The global reach of the ban means that if Prestianni were to be called up by Lionel Scaloni for the Argentina national squad, he would be unavailable for upcoming international fixtures. This includes:
- Algeria
- Austria
Prestianni, who has made just one senior appearance for Argentina in a friendly last November, faces a critical period for his international aspirations. Missing these opportunities could hinder his chances of cementing a place in the squad as the 2026 World Cup approaches.
Player’s denial and World Cup implications
The nature of the accusation and the subsequent finding for homophobic abuse has been a point of contention for Prestianni. Speaking about his punishment, the young winger maintained his innocence regarding the initial allegations. “I have never been racist, and I never will be. What hurt me the most was to be accused of something I never did,” Prestianni stated, according to GiveMeSport.
With the 2026 World Cup set to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, featuring a record-breaking 48 nations, competition for places in national squads will be fierce. For Prestianni, serving a worldwide ban for homophobic abuse at such a pivotal stage of his career could have lasting repercussions on his reputation and his path to representing Argentina on football’s biggest stage.
Sources: www.givemesport.com
