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FIFA extends Benfica’s Prestianni ban to World Cup games after racism row with Vinicius
TL;DR
FIFA has extended Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni's ban to the World Cup, preventing him from participating in Argentina's first two matches. This follows a six-match suspension by UEFA for racially abusing Vinicius Jr during a Champions League game.
Key points
- FIFA extends Prestianni's ban to World Cup games
- Prestianni banned for verbally abusing Vinicius Jr
- Ban rules him out of Argentina's first two matches
Gianluca PrestianniVinicius JrArgentinaBenfica
FIFA extends Benfica’s Prestianni ban to World Cup games after racism row with Vinicius
FIFA has confirmed that Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni will carry his ban into the upcoming World Cup tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
According to ESPN, the ban will rule the 20-year-old winger out of Argentina’s opening two World Cup games if he’s selected in Lionel Scaloni’s squad.
Prestianni was handed a six-match ban by UEFA after verbally abusing Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr during their Champions League clash.
Three of those matches were deferred on probation, but the others still carry significant consequences.
UEFA has been pushing for FIFA to extend the ban beyond European competitions to the World Cup that starts next month, and the global governing body has fulfilled that request.
The latest decision further complicates Prestianni’s chances of making Argentina’s World Cup squad.
He made his senior debut for La Albiceleste in a 2-0 international friendly victory over Angola in November 2025, coming on for the final nine minutes of the game.
Prestianni hasn’t represented his country since, and his form so far this season suggests he could be overlooked for the World Cup even if the ban didn’t apply.
Q&A
Why was Gianluca Prestianni banned from the World Cup?
Gianluca Prestianni was banned for verbally abusing Vinicius Jr during a Champions League match, leading to a six-match suspension by UEFA.
How long is Gianluca Prestianni's ban for the World Cup?
Prestianni's ban extends to the World Cup, ruling him out of Argentina's opening two matches.
Which teams are participating in the World Cup where Prestianni's ban applies?
The World Cup is being held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
