FIFA slaps Argentina with fines, bans over World Cup final
FIFA has issued significant fines and suspensions to Argentina's national football team following a violent brawl during the World Cup final against Spain. The sanctions also address discriminatory behavior by fans and the use of political banners regarding the Falkland Islands.
Why it matters
The disciplinary action highlights FIFA's ongoing struggle to manage player conduct and political expression within the high-stakes environment of international sports.
A 10-match suspension for midfielder Leandro Paredes was one of several sanctions FIFA imposed against Argentina on Friday (August 22, 2026) for their actions in last month’s World Cup final loss to Spain.
The FIFA Disciplinary Committee also fined Paredes $90,000 for sparking a post-match brawl after Spain’s 1-0 victory in extra time on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J.
Argentina teammates Nahuel Molina (seven-match suspension, $90,000 fine) and Thiago Almada (one match, $30,000) and team official Roberto Ayala (three matches, $30,000) and Spain midfielder Gavi (one match, $30,000) also were disciplined.
FIFA also fined the Argentinian Football Association (AFA) $321,000 for various violations, including using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature; team misconduct; and discriminatory chants and gestures by its supporters. Argentina was ordered to invest $100,000 of their fine in a plan to combat discrimination.
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