Following an incident that occurred after the World Cup final match, FIFA imposed strict measures on Argentine footballers. Specifically, Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes received a ban from participating in 10 matches against Spain.
Additionally, defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven matches, and Thiago Almada was banned for one match. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) also incurred a significant fine.
The 2026 World Cup final, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, ended with Spain defeating Argentina 1-0, supported by Lionel Messi. After the game, Spanish players came onto the field to celebrate, which led to heightened tension between the teams and escalated into a fight.
The most serious accusations were leveled against Paredes. During the altercation, he pushed Spanish midfielder Gavi, knocking him to the ground, and also grabbed Eric Garcia by the neck. FIFA investigated three incidents related to the assault and imposed a 10-game ban on Paredes. Molina was suspended for seven matches on two charges. Almada received a one-match penalty for conduct contrary to the spirit of the game.
Measures were also taken against Argentine coach assistant Roberto Ayala. Paredes and Molina were each fined $90,000 USD. Almada and Ayala are required to pay $30,000 each.
The ten-match ban is a serious blow for Leandro Paredes, as Argentina has 10 international matches scheduled before June 2027, all of which are friendlies. With this ban in place, he could be out of the national team for almost a year. This punishment is considered one of the strictest disciplinary measures in World Cup history.
Spanish player Gavi was also suspended for one match, meaning he will be unable to participate in the National League match against England scheduled for September 26 at Wembley Stadium.
FIFA also took action against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) regarding various incidents during the World Cup. These include the display of political banners related to the Falkland Islands after the victory over England in the semi-finals. AFA was fined $110,000. Furthermore, it was ordered to spend one hundred thousand dollars on anti-racism programs. Although the case is not yet fully closed, AFA has the right to appeal these sanctions and fines to FIFA, and if necessary, challenge the decision at the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).