Argentina’s Paredes gets 10-game ban for World Cup final scuffle with Spain | World Cup News
FIFA Suspends Three Argentina Players Over World Cup Final Incident
August 21, 2026
FIFA has imposed significant suspensions on three players from Argentina following a scuffle with Spanish opponents after their World Cup final loss. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match ban for his involvement in the altercation, during which he reportedly grabbed Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat and pushed Gavi to the ground.
This sanction for Paredes ranks among the most severe in World Cup history, comparable to the ban given to Uruguayan forward Luis Suarez in 2014. Argentina defender Nahuel Molina received a seven-match suspension, while Thiago Almada was handed a one-game ban. In addition to the suspensions, FIFA levied fines of $90,000 against Paredes and Molina, and $30,000 against Almada.
The ban effectively sidelines Paredes from the national team for one year, as FIFA’s calendar includes 10 scheduled matches through June 2027, primarily consisting of friendlies.
Gavi of Spain also faces a one-match suspension, which will see him miss a Nations League encounter against England at Wembley on September 26.
Roberto Ayala, the coach of the Argentina national team, has been banned for three matches and fined $30,000.
The Argentine football federation has been fined $110,000 for various incidents during the tournament, including players displaying a political banner regarding the Falkland Islands following their semifinal victory over England and discriminatory chants from fans. Additionally, FIFA has mandated that the federation allocate $100,000 to antiracism initiatives. Argentina’s national team received $34 million in prize money following the tournament.
The Argentine football federation has the option to appeal the sanctions to FIFA and potentially to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
The confrontations on the field occurred after Argentina suffered a defeat to Spain in a final characterized by tension and limited scoring opportunities. Spain forward Ferran Torres netted the game-winning goal during the second period of extra time after Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off.
