The 20-year-old Benfica winger had already been handed a six-match ban by UEFA two weeks ago, with three of those matches suspended on probation. The punishment stemmed from an incident during a Champions League clash involving alleged verbal abuse directed at Vinícius Júnior of Real Madrid.
During the match, Prestianni covered his mouth with his jersey while delivering the insult—an action that drew scrutiny and later disciplinary action. UEFA’s investigation examined claims, supported by Vinícius and teammate Kylian Mbappé, that the Argentine used racist language. While UEFA stated it could not prove the alleged racist remark—which Prestianni denied—it confirmed he had used an anti-gay slur.
FIFA has now enforced the sanction globally. In an official statement, the governing body said:
“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has decided to extend the six-match ban imposed by UEFA on Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni to have worldwide effect.”
This decision means the suspension will apply beyond European competitions, including international tournaments such as the World Cup, which kicks off next month in the United States.
World Cup Uncertainty for Argentina
The ruling raises fresh doubts about whether Prestianni will be included in Argentina national football team coach Lionel Scaloni’s squad as they aim to defend their title.
Argentina are scheduled to begin their campaign against Algeria national football team on June 17 in Kansas City, before facing Austria national football team in Arlington, Texas, five days later. The group also includes tournament debutants Jordan national football team.
If selected, Prestianni would miss at least two of those matches due to the suspension.
His international experience remains limited. The winger has made just one appearance for Argentina—a friendly in November—and was an unused substitute in their most recent World Cup warmup against Zambia national football team on March 31.
When Scaloni included him in the March squad, he avoided addressing the ongoing UEFA investigation, instead noting the need for reinforcements due to the absence of Paulo Dybala.
Disciplinary Fallout and Rule Changes
Prestianni has already served the first match of his ban, missing Benfica’s Champions League playoff second leg against Real Madrid in February.
Meanwhile, the controversy has also fed into broader rule changes. Last week, IFAB approved a proposal—backed by FIFA—to make it a red-card offense at the World Cup for players to cover their mouths while insulting opponents, closing a loophole often used to conceal abusive language.
What Happens Next
If Prestianni is left out of Argentina’s World Cup squad, the remaining matches of his suspension will instead be served in UEFA competitions next season.
For now, the young winger’s immediate future remains uncertain—caught between disciplinary consequences and the possibility of missing out on football’s biggest stage.