FIFA: Paredes Gets 10-Match Ban as Argentina Punished for World Cup Final Clash

FIFA has imposed a series of disciplinary sanctions on Argentina players and officials following the clash that broke out after the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.

Paredes handed 10-match suspension

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes received the strongest punishment. FIFA banned him for 10 international matches and fined him $90,000.

Teammate Nahuel Molina also received a seven-match suspension and a $90,000 fine. The sanctions follow the confrontation involving players from both teams after Spain defeated Argentina in the final.

Argentina midfielder Thiago Almada received a one-match suspension and a $30,000 fine. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was banned for three matches and fined $30,000.

Gavi also punished

Spain midfielder Gavi received a one-match suspension and a $30,000 fine for his involvement in the incident. FIFA’s disciplinary action therefore affects players and officials from both teams.

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Argentina federation fined $321,000

FIFA also fined the Argentine Football Association (AFA) $321,000 for several disciplinary breaches during the tournament. The sanctions included issues linked to the post-match incident, fan conduct and other violations.

The AFA will also face restrictions on stadium capacity for its next two home matches. FIFA has directed part of the financial penalty towards measures aimed at combating discrimination.

The latest decision adds to the fallout from a tense World Cup final and brings FIFA’s disciplinary process over the post-match confrontation to a significant stage.