FIFA Extends Gianluca Prestianni's Ban Worldwide

FIFA announced on Wednesday that it has extended the six-match ban of Gianluca Prestianni, a winger for SL Benfica, to a worldwide effect. The ban was originally imposed by UEFA following an incident during the first leg of the Champions League playoff against Real Madrid on February 17, where Prestianni was accused of racism towards Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.

The 20-year-old Prestianni denied the allegations, stating he had spoken to Vinicius while covering his mouth, which led to the Brazilian's complaint to the referee, resulting in a 10-minute suspension of the match. The FIFA Disciplinary Committee decided to extend the ban in accordance with Article 70 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

Prestianni had already served part of his suspension and will miss the second leg of the Champions League playoff. Additionally, he will be unavailable for Argentina's two opening games in the World Cup scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.