FIFA extends ban on Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni ahead of World Cup

FIFA has confirmed a worldwide suspension for Gianluca Prestianni, ruling the Benfica winger out of two matches at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup if selected for the Argentina national football team.

UEFA Ban Extended Globally

The decision follows a sanction initially handed down by UEFA, which imposed a six-match ban—three of which were suspended—after Prestianni was found guilty of verbally abusing Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match involving Real Madrid.

FIFA has now extended the punishment to apply across all competitions worldwide, including the World Cup.

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“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 soccer body said in a statement.

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Uncertainty Over World Cup Inclusion

It remains unclear whether Prestianni will be included in Argentina’s final squad, as head coach Lionel Scaloni prepares to defend the title.

Argentina are set to open their campaign against the Algeria national football team on June 17 in Kansas City before facing the Austria national football team in Arlington, Texas. The Jordan national football team completes the group.

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Limited International Experience

The 20-year-old winger has had limited involvement with the national team, making just one appearance in a friendly match in November. He was also an unused substitute in Argentina’s recent World Cup warm-up game against Zambia.

The ban adds further uncertainty to his chances of featuring on football’s biggest stage.