FIFA bans four Argentina players after 2026 World Cup final melee

FIFA has suspended four Argentina players following the confrontation that broke out after the 2026 World Cup final against Spain. Leandro Paredes received a 10-match ban, while Nahuel Molina was suspended for seven national-team matches.

The other Argentina players included in the disciplinary action are Thiago Almada and Roberto Ayala. FIFA’s sanctions apply to international fixtures for the national team rather than club matches.

The post-match incident involved players from both finalists. Television footage showed Molina becoming involved in an exchange with Spain midfielder Rodri before a separate confrontation involving Paredes, Eric Garcia and Pablo Gavi.

Paredes was shown taking hold of Garcia by the neck and then pushing Gavi to the ground. Almada and Gavi were also identified in the investigation after appearing to strike Paredes during the disorder.

Gavi, the Spain player involved in the incident, has been given a one-match suspension. The disciplinary measures therefore affect both teams involved in the final, with the longest bans falling on Paredes and Molina.

The suspensions will shape Argentina’s next national-team programme, although no further fixture details were provided. FIFA’s decision follows its investigation into conduct after the final rather than incidents during the match itself.