Infantino urges stronger measures in the Vinicius-Prestianni situation
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has once again addressed the Vinicius-Prestianni case, urging for more stringent measures to tackle unacceptable conduct on the field.
During an interview with Sky News on Sunday, Infantino proposed that players who cover their mouths while speaking to opponents should be assumed to have “said something they shouldn’t have said.” He emphasized that football needs to cease viewing racism merely as a societal problem and should instead implement strict, tangible penalties, particularly with the 2026 World Cup approaching.
Infantino also contended that sanctions should be tailored to reflect the level of responsibility demonstrated by players. He articulated that actions taken in a moment of anger, accompanied by a sincere apology, ought not to be penalized in the same manner as intentional or recurring offenses.
He stated, “players who apologise should benefit from reduced penalties.” On Saturday, the IFAB announced that FIFA is contemplating new measures that may be put into effect as soon as this summer, while UEFA’s disciplinary investigation into Prestianni continues to progress.
