Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
The Gianluca Prestianni World Cup ban has been extended across the globe by FIFA, leaving the Argentina winger in a difficult position ahead of the summer tournament. The decision, confirmed on May 6, means the SL Benfica player will be ineligible for his country’s first two group games if he is selected.
This ruling follows a request from UEFA after the player admitted to using homophobic language toward Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior in February.
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FIFA officials moved to apply the six-match suspension worldwide in accordance with article 70 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. While an allegation of racial abuse was not proven, the use of homophobic comments resulted in one of the year’s strictest disciplinary actions.
"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 spokesperson for the organization stated.
The extension makes it highly unlikely that the 20-year-old will secure a place in the final Argentina squad for the tournament. Gianluca Prestianni has only made one senior appearance for his country and will likely serve the remainder of the ban during European club competition next season.
Strict New Laws for Player Conduct
The incident has also sparked a change in how football matches are officiated regarding verbal abuse on the pitch. During the confrontation in Lisbon, Gianluca Prestianni covered his mouth while speaking to Vinicius Junior to hide his words from the cameras.
The International Football Association Board recently approved a proposal that allows referees to show a red card to any player who uses this tactic when confronting an opponent. This new rule was passed at a meeting in Vancouver and can now be applied at the discretion of individual league organizers.
Fans looking for the full 2026 schedule or further disciplinary updates can visit the official FIFA website.