Paredes handed 10-match ban after Argentina's 1-0 2026 World Cup loss

Leandro Paredes has been suspended for 10 international matches after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat by Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. His punishment relates to confrontations involving Argentina players and staff after the final whistle.

Nahuel Molina received a seven-match ban, while both players were fined $90,000. Paredes was found to have grabbed Eric Garcia by the throat, brought Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground and appeared to strike him in the face. Molina was also judged to have appeared to punch Rodri as the Spain midfielder celebrated.

Gavi and Argentina’s Thiago Almada were each given one-match suspensions and $30,000 fines for their involvement in the post-match incidents. Argentina coach Roberto Ayala received a three-match ban and a $30,000 fine after striking Spain’s Dani Olmo in the face. The suspensions apply only to international fixtures.

Argentina’s Football Association was fined $321,000 for breaches covering team misconduct, discriminatory chants and gestures by supporters, and the use of a sporting event for non-sporting demonstrations. The disciplinary action also covers a banner displayed after Argentina’s semi-final victory over England that asserted the country’s claim to the Falkland Islands.

Fifa directed that $100,000 of the fine be put towards an anti-discrimination programme. Another $100,000 has been suspended, subject to a probationary period. Argentina must also stage its next two home matches at half capacity, although one match of that order is suspended.

The AFA plans to appeal the decisions. If that challenge fails, the association will take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The sanctions follow a disciplinary and ethics investigation into the scenes at the New York New Jersey Stadium after Spain secured the world title.