FIFA has handed Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes a 10-match international suspension. This comes after the violent confrontation that marred the end of the 2026 World Cup final against Spain, widely reported as the Paredes FIFA ban.
According to football journalist Fabrizio Romano, FIFA also sanctioned Argentina defender Nahuel Molina, midfielder Thiago Almada, assistant coach Roberto Ayala and Spain midfielder Gavi. These sanctions followed disciplinary proceedings into the post-match clashes that were connected to the Paredes FIFA ban.
Paredes receives toughest punishment
Paredes was handed the heaviest punishment. He received a 10-game suspension and a $90,000 fine for his involvement in the confrontation after Argentina’s defeat.
The midfielder was at the centre of chaotic scenes following the final whistle. In those scenes, there were clashes involving Spain players Gavi and Eric Garcia.
His suspension applies to Argentina national team matches, meaning it will not prevent him from playing for his club.
Argentina right-back Nahuel Molina was also heavily punished, receiving a seven-match international ban and a $90,000 fine.
Molina had been investigated over his involvement in separate incidents during the confrontation, including an altercation involving Spain captain Rodri.
Thiago Almada was given a one-match suspension and fined $30,000. Meanwhile, Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala received a three-match ban and a $30,000 fine.
Spain midfielder Gavi was also handed a one-game suspension and a $30,000 fine for unsporting behaviour during the incident. It is clear the Paredes FIFA ban has set a precedent for similar punishments.
The punishment comes after Gavi had publicly argued that Paredes should not receive a suspension over the confrontation.
FIFA had opened disciplinary proceedings against the players and officials on July 29. This came after reviewing incidents that occurred during the World Cup final.
Argentina-Spain final ended in chaos
Spain defeated defending champions Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the World Cup final. The match took place at the New York New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
However, celebrations following the victory were overshadowed by confrontations between players and officials from both teams.
Paredes was shown a red card following the final whistle as tensions escalated into a wider melee. As a result, the Paredes FIFA ban gained international attention for its severity.
FIFA subsequently investigated the incidents before imposing the latest punishments, with Paredes and Molina receiving by far the longest suspensions.
The sanctions mean Argentina will be without two experienced members of their squad for a significant number of upcoming international fixtures. This is as the team begins life after its World Cup title defence ended in defeat.
