FIFA Hands Paredes 10-Match Ban, Molina Seven After World Cup Final Clash

Rabat – FIFA has imposed heavy disciplinary sanctions on Argentina and several players involved in the confrontation that followed the 2026 FIFA World Cup final between Argentina and Spain.

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has been handed a 10-match suspension, making him the most severely punished player following the incident. He was also fined $90,000.

His Argentina teammate Nahuel Molina received a seven-match ban and the same $90,000 fine. FIFA had opened disciplinary proceedings against both players over alleged acts of assault during the post-match confrontation.

The sanctions also affect Spain midfielder Gavi, who received a one-match suspension and a $30,000 fine for unsporting behavior. Argentina forward Thiago Almada was handed an identical punishment.

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also sanctioned with a three-match suspension and a $30,000 fine.

What happened after the World Cup final?

The sanctions stem from chaotic scenes that followed Spain’s victory over Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final.

Players from both teams became involved in a confrontation immediately after the final whistle, prompting FIFA to open disciplinary proceedings.

Paredes was initially investigated over three potential assault violations, while Molina faced two alleged assault charges as well as an additional unsporting-behavior charge. Ayala was investigated over an alleged assault violation, while Gavi and Almada faced proceedings for unsporting behavior.

The confrontation reportedly included a physical exchange involving Paredes, Gavi and Spain defender Eric García, while Molina was involved in an incident with Spain captain Rodri.

Gavi had previously indicated that he did not want Paredes to receive a suspension over the incident. FIFA, however, ultimately handed the Argentine midfielder a lengthy 10-match ban.

AFA also faces major sanctions

The disciplinary measures extend beyond the players, with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) receiving a $321,000 fine for several violations during the tournament.

FIFA cited issues including team misconduct, discriminatory behavior by supporters, security breaches and the display of a political message during the World Cup.

The AFA must also play its next two home matches at 50% stadium capacity.

FIFA further ordered that $100,000 of the federation’s fine be allocated to anti-discrimination initiatives.

The disciplinary decisions remain subject to appeal, while some of the measures have been suspended during a probationary period.

The sanctions bring FIFA’s disciplinary proceedings over one of the most controversial episodes of the 2026 World Cup to a conclusion, with Paredes and Molina facing the heaviest sporting consequences.