FIFA has announced a global ban for Gianluca Prestianni, which will prevent the Benfica winger from participating in two World Cup matches in the United States if he is included in Argentina's squad. This decision follows a six-game ban imposed by UEFA two weeks prior due to Prestianni's verbal abuse directed at Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior during a Champions League match.

Details of the Ban

Prestianni's actions included covering his mouth with his jersey while making the insult. FIFA confirmed that it would extend UEFA's ban to apply globally, stating, “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 extension means that if selected, Prestianni will miss Argentina's opening match against Algeria on June 17 in Kansas City and a subsequent game against Austria five days later.

Argentina's World Cup Plans

It remains uncertain whether Prestianni is still part of Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni's plans as the team prepares to defend their World Cup title. The 20-year-old winger has only made one appearance for the national team, a friendly match in November, and was an unused substitute in a recent warm-up game against Zambia. Scaloni had called up Prestianni in March, citing the unavailability of Paulo Dybala, but did not comment on the ongoing UEFA investigation at that time.

UEFA had looked into allegations of a racist insult made by Prestianni, which were supported by Vinícius and Kylian Mbappé. Although UEFA could not substantiate the racial claim, Prestianni admitted to using a homophobic slur. He has already served part of his ban, missing a Champions League match against Madrid in February. If he is not selected for the World Cup, he will complete his ban in a UEFA-organized European competition next season.