FIFA Enforces Global Ban on Benfica’s Prestianni After UEFA Racism Sanction

FIFA on Wednesday confirmed that Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni’s suspension has been extended globally following disciplinary action taken by UEFA earlier this year.

The Argentine player received a six-match ban, with half of the punishment suspended, over discriminatory behaviour during Benfica’s Champions League play-off first-leg encounter against Real Madrid on February 17.

The incident involved Real Madrid attacker Vinicius Junior, who accused the 20-year-old of making racist remarks during a heated exchange on the pitch — claims Prestianni has denied.

Video footage showed Prestianni speaking to Vinicius while shielding his mouth, after which the Brazilian complained to the referee. The match was temporarily suspended for 10 minutes.

“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,” FIFA told AFP.

“The sanction has been extended in accordance with article 70 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.”

Prestianni has already served one match of the ban after missing the return leg against Real Madrid.

Following FIFA’s ruling, the former Velez Sarsfield winger is expected to miss Argentina’s first two games of the FIFA World Cup, scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico between June 11 and July 19.

Africans Angle News