NEW YORK: FIFA has imposed lengthy suspensions and fines on several Argentina players and officials following clashes involving players and officials after the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was handed a 10-match suspension and fined $90,000 by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee. His teammate Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven matches and also fined $90,000.
Thiago Almada and Pablo Martin Paez Gavira were each suspended for one match and fined $30,000, while Argentina team official Roberto Ayala was banned for three matches and fined $30,000.
The sanctions followed an investigation into incidents involving players and officials from both teams after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
FIFA also fined the Argentine Football Association a total of $321,000 for multiple violations, including misconduct, the use of sporting events for demonstrations considered contrary to sporting principles, discriminatory chants and gestures by supporters, and breaches of security regulations.
Argentina have also been ordered to play their next two home matches at 50% stadium capacity, although one of the sanctions has been suspended.
FIFA said $100,000 of the fine imposed on the Argentine Football Association must be allocated to measures aimed at combating discrimination, while another $100,000 portion of the penalty has been suspended.
The disciplinary action followed a report submitted by a prosecutor appointed to investigate the incidents after the World Cup final.
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FIFA said the player suspensions will apply to the players’ next matches with their national team. The parties have 10 days to request the detailed reasoning behind the decisions and may appeal under FIFA regulations.
