Gianluca Prestianni Faces World Cup Blow as FIFA Extends Ban
Global suspension could rule winger out of Argentina’s opening matches at the FIFA World Cup
- FIFA extended Prestianni’s six-match ban to apply worldwide.
- The suspension stems from alleged discriminatory conduct involving Vinícius Júnior.
- He could miss Argentina’s first two group-stage matches if selected for the squad.
Gianluca Prestianni could miss Argentina’s opening matches at the FIFA World Cup after his suspension was extended globally by FIFA.
The decision follows a six-match ban originally handed to the Benfica winger by UEFA over alleged discriminatory conduct during a Champions League playoff match against Real Madrid.
FIFA confirmed that the sanction will now apply worldwide, meaning it could affect both club and international competitive fixtures. As a result, Prestianni risks missing Argentina’s first two group-stage games if he is included in the squad.
The ban stems from accusations that the 20-year-old directed a slur at Vinícius Júnior during the February clash.
Under the ruling, the suspension applies to official competitions but does not cover friendly matches or domestic league games.
Prestianni has limited experience with the national team, having made just one appearance for Argentina in a friendly match last year.
Argentina are set to begin their World Cup campaign on June 16, with the extended ban casting doubt over the winger’s availability for the early stages of the tournament.
