Will He Miss the 2026 World Cup Over Vinicius Insults? FIFA Shows No Mercy, Extends Prestianni's Ban

FIFA has confirmed a worldwide ban for Prestianni, a decision that will sideline the Benfica winger for two matches of the 2026 World Cup should he be called up to the Argentine national team.

The European football governing body (UEFA) had previously handed Prestianni a six-match suspension two weeks ago, with three games conditionally deferred. This penalty was for verbally abusing Real Madrid's Brazilian forward Vinicius in a Champions League fixture. Prestianni was seen covering his mouth with his jersey while uttering the insult.

As anticipated, FIFA has now granted UEFA's request to extend the ban beyond European competitions, including the upcoming World Cup, which kicks off in June across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has decided to extend the six-match ban imposed by UEFA on Benfica player Gianluca Prestianni with worldwide validity,” AP quoted a FIFA statement.

The 20-year-old winger made his first and only appearance for Argentina in a friendly match last November. He has already served the first game of his suspension, having been barred by UEFA from playing against Real Madrid in the Champions League in February.

Should Prestianni not be selected for the Argentine squad, he will serve the remainder of his ban in a UEFA-organized European competition next season.