In a significant disciplinary escalation, FIFA has extended Gianluca Prestianni's suspension to cover the 2026 World Cup, meaning the young Argentine winger could miss his nation's opening two matches if selected for the squad.

The 20-year-old Benfica star was handed a six-game ban by UEFA after Real Madrid's Vinícius Júnior alleged Prestianni directed a racist slur at him during a February Champions League clash. Prestianni has denied the accusation, reportedly claiming he used a homophobic slur instead.

FIFA confirmed the worldwide extension on Wednesday, 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 means the suspension now applies to competitive FIFA matches, including the World Cup.

If Argentina's head coach includes Prestianni in the final roster—announcements are expected by June 2—he would be sidelined for the defending champions' group stage openers against Algeria (June 16), Austria, and Jordan. The 20-year-old has just one senior cap for La Albiceleste but was part of the squad during March's international window.

There is a silver lining for Prestianni: he remains eligible for Benfica's final two league games and Argentina's June 7 friendly against Honduras, as the ban only applies to UEFA competitions or competitive FIFA matches. If he doesn't make the World Cup squad, the suspension will carry over into next season's UEFA tournaments.

This incident has already sparked broader change in the sport. The International Football Association Board recently approved a proposal—taking effect at the 2026 World Cup—that allows referees to issue red cards to players who cover their mouths during confrontations, a direct response to the Prestianni case.