Harsh sanctions from FIFA on Argentina following 2026 World Cup final incidents

- Paredis suspended for 10 matches, Molina for 7, and the Argentine Football Association fined $321,000

The aftermath of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final whistle did not go unpunished, as FIFA issued its disciplinary decisions regarding the altercations that marred the final match between Spain and Argentina, which ended with Spain being crowned champions for the second time in their history.

Spain had defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final held last July, before the moments following the final whistle saw scuffles involving several players from both teams, with Argentine players Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina among the most prominent participants.

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FIFA fined the Argentine Football Association $321,000, along with ordering them to play their next two home matches with a spectator limit of no more than 50%.

The Disciplinary Committee also mandated that the Argentine Football Association invest $100,000 of the fine amount in an anti-discrimination plan. Part of the sanction, which included one of the matches and $100,000 of the fine, was suspended subject to a probationary period.

Regarding individual sanctions, FIFA suspended Leandro Paredes for 10 matches and fined him $90,000, while Molina was suspended for 7 matches with a similar fine. Thiago Almada was punished with a one-match suspension and a $30,000 fine.

The sanctions also included Argentina’s assistant coach Roberto Ayala, who received a three-match suspension and a $30,000 fine, as well as Spanish player Gavi, who was suspended for one match and fined $30,000.