FIFA has taken action against Argentina over incidents that occurred after the 2026 World Cup final, banning midfielder Leandro Paredes for 10 matches.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee also fined Paredes US$90,000, while his teammate Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven matches and fined US$90,000.
According to FIFA, the punishments were announced following an investigation into clashes between players and officials from both teams at the conclusion of the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, played on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Thiago Almada and Pablo Martín Páez Gavira were each suspended for one match and fined US$30,000, while Argentina team official Roberto Ayala was suspended for three matches and fined US$30,000.
FIFA has also imposed a total fine of US$321,000 on the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for various violations.
According to FIFA, the AFA was held responsible for using a sporting event for unsporting demonstrations, team misconduct, discriminatory chants and gestures by supporters, as well as violations of security regulations.
Argentina has also been ordered to play its next two home matches at 50 percent stadium capacity, although one of the match restrictions has been suspended.
FIFA has ordered US$100,000 of the fine to be allocated toward measures against discrimination, while another US$100,000 fine has been suspended.
The action was taken after a report was submitted by the disciplinary and ethics prosecutor appointed to investigate the incidents that occurred following the World Cup final.
According to FIFA, all match suspensions will apply to the national teams’ next respective matches. The parties have 10 days to request a detailed decision explaining the reasons for the rulings, and the decisions can also be appealed under FIFA regulations.
It is worth noting that Spain defeated Argentina 1–0 in the 2026 World Cup final, played on July 19 at the New York New Jersey Stadium, to claim the title.
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