FIFA hits Argentina with major bans after World Cup final brawl
Shafaq News
FIFA handed Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes a 10-match international ban on Friday and sanctioned four other players and staff over incidents following Spain's victory in the 2026 World Cup final.
Paredes also received a $90,000 fine. FIFA had opened proceedings against him over three alleged assault offences linked to the post-match confrontation.
Argentina defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven matches and fined $90,000 after facing two assault charges, one completed and one attempted, as well as a charge of unsporting behaviour.
Thiago Almada received a one-match ban and $30,000 fine for unsporting behaviour, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was suspended for three matches and fined $30,000 after being investigated for assault.
Spain midfielder Gavi was the only Spanish player sanctioned, receiving a one-match suspension and $30,000 fine for unsporting behaviour.
FIFA also fined the Argentine Football Association $321,000 over broader disciplinary breaches during the World Cup, including team misconduct, discriminatory chants and gestures, security failures and the use of sporting events for non-sporting demonstrations.
Among the incidents cited in the proceedings was Argentina's display of a "Las Malvinas Son Argentinas" banner after their semifinal victory over England. Argentina were also ordered to play home internationals with spectator capacity restricted to 50%, although part of that sanction was suspended subject to a probationary period.
The sanctions followed Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the July 19 final at New York New Jersey Stadium, where Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in the 106th minute.
