FIFA has banned Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes for 10 matches and fined him USD 90,000 for his role in the brawl that followed the World Cup 2026 final against Spain. The incident occurred after Argentina's victory at New York New Jersey Stadium on 19 July, with Paredes seen grabbing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat and throwing Barcelona's Gavi to the ground.
FIFA's Disciplinary Action
In a statement, FIFA confirmed the sanctions: 'Following the submission of the report by the appointed Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor on the incidents that occurred at the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Spain and Argentina played at New York New Jersey Stadium on 19 July, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has imposed the sanctions detailed below.'
Paredes received a ten-match suspension and a fine of USD 90,000. Argentina defender Nahuel Molina, who appeared to strike Spain captain Rodri while running onto the pitch to celebrate, was handed a seven-match ban and a USD 90,000 fine. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala, captured punching Dani Olmo after a verbal spat, was suspended for three matches and fined USD 30,000.
Other Sanctions and Impact
Thiago Almada received a one-match suspension and a USD 30,000 fine, while Gavi, involved in the incidents with Molina and Paredes, was also given a one-match ban and a USD 30,000 fine. In line with article 69 paragraphs 2 a) and 3 of the FDC, the match suspensions are carried over to the next matches of the relevant representative teams.
These sanctions will affect Argentina's upcoming international fixtures, with Paredes and Molina set to miss significant playing time. The fines total USD 270,000 across the five individuals penalized. FIFA's disciplinary committee acted after reviewing the prosecutor's report on the post-match events.
