FIFA has handed down suspensions to four Argentina officials and players, as well as Spain midfielder Gavi, following the clash that erupted after the 2026 World Cup final.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes received the heaviest punishment, with a 10-match international ban and a $90,000 fine. Teammate Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven matches and fined $90,000.
Thiago Almada received a one-match ban and a $30,000 fine, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was suspended for three matches and fined $30,000.
Spain’s Gavi was also handed a one-match suspension and fined $30,000. The sanctions will apply to the players’ and officials’ next national-team matches.
The punishments followed a post-match altercation after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the July 19 final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Paredes was accused of grabbing Spain defender Eric Garcia by the neck and pushing Gavi, while Molina was involved in another confrontation with Spanish players. FIFA had previously opened disciplinary proceedings over the incidents.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) was also fined $321,000 over several disciplinary breaches during the tournament, including discriminatory behavior, security violations, and the display of a political banner.
The affected parties have the right to appeal the decisions.
Leave feedback about this