FIFA extends Prestianni ban globally ahead of World Cup

May 06, 2026

Reported by AI

FIFA has extended Gianluca Prestianni's six-game suspension for homophobic conduct to worldwide effect. The decision puts the Benfica winger's participation in Argentina's opening matches at the 2026 World Cup in doubt. Prestianni was initially banned by UEFA following an incident in February.

FIFA announced the extension on May 6, citing article 70 of its Disciplinary Code. The sanction now covers competitive international matches in addition to UEFA club fixtures. It does not apply to domestic league games or friendlies.

Dramatic illustration of Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni confronting Vinicius Junior on the pitch during Champions League match, sparking UEFA suspension.

UEFA provisionally suspends Benfica's Prestianni ahead of Real Madrid clash

February 23, 2026 Reported by AI Image generated by AI

UEFA has provisionally suspended Benfica midfielder Gianluca Prestianni for the second leg of the Champions League playoff against Real Madrid following allegations of discriminatory behavior toward Vinicius Junior. The decision comes after an incident that interrupted the first leg in Lisbon, where Real Madrid won 1-0. Benfica plans to appeal the ruling as investigations continue.

Benfica's Prestianni suspended for Real Madrid Champions League clash

UEFA has provisionally suspended Benfica forward Gianluca Prestianni for one match following allegations of discriminatory behavior toward Real Madrid's Vinícius Jr during the first leg of their Champions League play-off. The 20-year-old Argentine will miss Wednesday's second leg at the Santiago Bernabéu, where Benfica trail 1-0. Benfica plans to appeal the decision while reaffirming its anti-racism stance.

Prestianni slams UEFA ban after missing Madrid clash amid Vinícius probe

April 02, 2026 Reported by AI

Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni has criticized UEFA's provisional ban over alleged racist abuse of Real Madrid's Vinícius Jr., denying the claims and lamenting the lack of proof after missing the Champions League return leg. With the investigation ongoing, he thanks his club for support amid the controversy.

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Real Madrid submits evidence to UEFA in Vinicius Jr racism case

Real Madrid has submitted evidence to UEFA supporting Vinicius Jr's allegation of racial abuse by Benfica's Gianluca Prestianni during their Champions League match. The incident occurred in a 1-0 victory for Real Madrid on February 17, 2026, at Benfica's stadium in Lisbon. Prestianni denies the claims, and UEFA is investigating amid escalating tensions.

FIFA bans seven naturalized players from Malaysia's national team for 12 months

February 21, 2026 Reported by AI

Football's world governing body FIFA has imposed a 12-month ban on seven naturalized players for Malaysia's national team over alleged use of invalid documents. The ruling disrupts preparations for a crucial qualifier against Vietnam on March 31, 2026, in the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers. Malaysian football legend Datuk Jamal Nasir has criticized the Football Association of Malaysia for lacking transparency.

FIFA lifts transfer ban on Athletic Club

FIFA has lifted a transfer ban on Spanish club Athletic Club, allowing them to register new players after a brief administrative issue. The ban, imposed due to various infractions, was set to last until January 2028 but has now been resolved without sporting or financial consequences. The club will be removed from FIFA's blacklist within five days.

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