Argentina’s Prestianni facing World Cup ban after new FIFA suspension in Vinícius incident
FIFA moves to extend UEFA’s sanction worldwide, leaving Argentina coach Scaloni with a selection dilemma ahead of the tournament.
FIFA has extended UEFA’s disciplinary sanction against Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni to all competitions worldwide, a decision that could significantly impact his chances of playing for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup.
Prestianni was originally handed a six-match ban by UEFA following an incident involving Real Madrid star Vinícius Jr. during a Champions League clash between Benfica and Madrid. Three of those matches are suspended, meaning they will only be enforced if he reoffends. He has already served one game, the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, applied retroactively.
FIFA steps in with global enforcement
While allegations of racist abuse could not be proven, UEFA determined that Prestianni had used homophobic language, which led to the suspension.
FIFA has now ensured the punishment applies beyond European competition.
“The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has decided to extend the six-match ban imposed by UEFA on SL Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni to have worldwide effect,” a FIFA spokesperson told AS. “The sanction has been extended in accordance with Article 70 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.”
World Cup availability in doubt
As a result, Prestianni will be unavailable for Argentina’s first two matches of the World Cup, should he be selected. Depending on any further incidents before or during the tournament, he could miss additional games.
That creates a difficult decision for Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni.
Scaloni faces selection dilemma
Prestianni has been included in recent Argentina squads, though not as a key contributor. Now, Scaloni must weigh whether it is worth calling up a player who would be sidelined for most of the group stage.
With the World Cup approaching, Argentina must decide if Prestianni’s potentRial impact later in the tournament justifies carrying him on the roster despite the suspension.
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