FIFA has handed down major disciplinary sanctions following the post-match clash between Argentina and Spain after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Leandro Paredes received the heaviest punishment, with a 10-match international suspension and a USD 90,000 fine.
Nahuel Molina was handed a seven-match ban and fined USD 90,000, while Thiago Almada received a one-match suspension and a USD 30,000 fine. Argentina assistance coach Roberto Ayala was suspended for three matches and fined USD 30,000, while Spain midfielder Gavi was also banned for one match and fined USD 30,000.
The sanctions stem from the altercation that followed Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the World Cup final. Paredes was punished for his involvement in the confrontation with Spain players, while Molina, Almada, Ayala and Gavi were also sanctioned for their respective roles in the incident.
Paredes gets heaviest punishment
Paredes has received the most severe suspension among the players involved. The Argentina midfielder will miss 10 international matches and has also been fined USD 90,000. Molina’s seven-match suspension is the second-longest, while Almada will serve a one-match ban.
Ayala has been handed a three-match suspension, while Gavi has also received a one-match ban. The individual sanctions mean Argentina players and staff have been handed a combined 21-match suspension following the final incident.
Argentina fined over Falklands banner
FIFA has also imposed a USD 321,000 fine on the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for several disciplinary breaches during the World Cup. The punishment includes the display of a political banner referencing the Falkland Islands after Argentina’s semi-final victory over England, along with other incidents involving discriminatory behaviour and misconduct.
Argentina have additionally been ordered to play their next two home matches at 50 stadium capacity, with part of the sanction suspended. FIFA has also directed that $100,000 of the fine be invested in anti-discrimination initiatives.
The latest punishment comes after FIFA had opened disciplinary proceedings in July over the final confrontation and several other incidents involving Argentina during the tournament.
