FIFA has handed Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes a 10-match international suspension following the post-match clash that marred Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee announced the sanctions on Friday, August 21, 2026, after investigating the confrontation that followed Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina at MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19.
Paredes was fined $90,000 in addition to his 10-match ban. His Argentina teammate Nahuel Molina received a seven-match suspension and $90,000 fine.
Thiago Almada was suspended for one international match and fined $30,000, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala received a three-match ban and the same fine.
Spain midfielder Gavi was also suspended for one international match and fined $30,000 for unsporting behaviour.
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The sanctions followed a brief confrontation after the final whistle, during which Paredes shoved Gavi to the ground as Spain’s substitutes entered the pitch to celebrate. FIFA had subsequently opened disciplinary proceedings against several individuals involved.
Paredes faced three assault charges, while Molina faced two. Ayala was charged with one assault offence, while Almada and Gavi faced proceedings for unsporting behaviour.
The suspensions apply to national-team matches, meaning the affected players will serve their bans when representing Argentina or Spain but remain available for their respective clubs.
FIFA also fined the Argentine Football Association (AFA) $321,000 over several disciplinary breaches during the tournament. The sanctions included a requirement for Argentina to restrict attendance to 50 per cent capacity for its next two home internationals. The AFA has indicated that it will appeal.
The latest punishment adds to the controversy surrounding a final that ended Spain’s campaign with the World Cup trophy but left Argentina facing significant disciplinary consequences.
For Paredes, the 10-match suspension is the heaviest individual penalty arising from the post-final incident and represents a major setback for Argentina as the team begins its next international cycle.