FIFA has imposed match suspensions and financial penalties on Argentina players, officials, and the national association following post-match brawls and violations at the World Cup.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee imposed a wave of sanctions against Argentina on Friday, August 22, 2026, following scenes of unrest after their 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes received the heaviest penalty with a 10-match suspension and a $90,000 fine for initiating a post-match melee. The 32-year-old Boca Juniors player was shown a red card after charging Spain defender Eric Garcia, grabbing him by the throat, and knocking him to the turf.
Additional sanctions were handed out to Argentina's Nahuel Molina, who received a seven-match suspension and a $90,000 fine, and team official Roberto Ayala, who was handed a three-match ban and a $30,000 fine. Post-match video footage appeared to capture both Molina and Ayala throwing punches. Argentina's Thiago Almada and Spain midfielder Gavi were also disciplined with one-match bans and $30,000 fines each.
The Argentinian Football Association (AFA) was fined $321,000 for various infractions, including team misconduct, discriminatory supporter chants, and non-sporting demonstrations. The non-sporting violation stems from Argentina players displaying a banner reading 'The Falklands are Argentine' following their semifinal victory against England, referencing the 1982 war between the UK and Argentina. The AFA was ordered to invest $100,000 into anti-discrimination programs and must operate their next two home matches at 50% spectator capacity, though $100,000 of the fine and one stadium restriction match are suspended during a probationary period.
Reporting sourced from The Hindu Football. Photo courtesy The Hindu Football.