FIFA suspends Argentina players, fines football association over World Cup incidents

FIFA on Friday fined the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and suspended three of its players and one team official over incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including a post-match scuffle after the final against Spain.

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes received the heaviest punishment, with FIFA's Disciplinary Committee handing him a 10-match suspension and a fine of $90,000.

Defender Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven matches and fined the same amount, while midfielder Thiago Almada received a one-match ban and a $30,000 fine.

Argentina team official Roberto Ayala was also suspended for three matches and fined $30,000.

Spain midfielder Gavi received a one-match suspension and a $30,000 fine over his involvement in the incident.

The sanctions followed a confrontation after Spain defeated Argentina in the World Cup final in the US last month.

FIFA also fined the AFA $321,000 over several disciplinary violations during the tournament, including the display of a banner relating to the disputed Falkland Islands, known as the Malvinas in Argentina, following the semifinal against England.

Of the fine, $100,000 must be invested in an anti-discrimination plan, while another $100,000 has been suspended subject to a probationary period.

Argentina was also ordered to play their next two home matches with stadium capacity limited to 50%.

FIFA said the sanctions related to breaches including "using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature," discrimination, misconduct and breaches of security regulations.

The governing body said the decisions followed disciplinary proceedings over incidents during the World Cup and were subject to appeal where applicable.