Leandro Paredes, 2 Other Argentina Players Banned Over 2026 World Cup Final Clashes

• Leandro Paredes has been handed a 10-match ban for his role in the post-match confrontations following the 2026 World Cup final
• Two other Argentine players have also received similar sanctions, while a Spanish player has been handed a comparable punishment
• Argentina’s FA has confirmed it will appeal all the sanctions and could take the matter to the Court of Arbitration for Sport if necessary

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has been handed a 10-match international ban by FIFA following the ugly scenes that marred the end of the 2026 World Cup final.

FIFA bans Paredes and others after World Cup

Paredes was at the centre of the post-match clashes after Argentina's 1-0 defeat to Spain at the New York New Jersey Stadium. He has also been fined $90,000.

His teammate Nahuel Molina received a seven-match suspension and the same financial penalty for his involvement in the altercations.

The sanctions come after FIFA appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the incidents that followed the final whistle.

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Paredes was accused of grabbing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat, wrestling Gavi to the ground and appearing to strike the Barcelona midfielder in the face.

Despite saying he did not believe Paredes deserved punishment, Gavi was handed a one-match ban and fined $30,000 (£22,000). Argentina's Thiago Almada received the same punishment.

Argentina's assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also suspended for three matches and fined $30,000 after being found to have struck Spain's Dani Olmo in the face.

All the suspensions apply only to international matches.

Argentina FA hit with heavy fine

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) was separately fined $321,000 (£235,000) for several disciplinary breaches, including team misconduct, discriminatory chants and gestures from supporters, and the use of a sporting event for non-sporting demonstrations.

Argentina were also ordered to play their next two home matches at 50% stadium capacity, although one of those matches has been suspended.

The AFA must direct $100,000 of its fine towards an anti-discrimination programme, while another $100,000 has been suspended during a probationary period.

The association has confirmed it will appeal the sanctions through FIFA's channels. If those efforts fail, the AFA plans to take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

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Argentina to immortalise World Cup win over England

Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that the Argentine Football Association has taken an official step to permanently honour their dramatic 2026 World Cup semi-final win over England.

The comeback victory sparked wild celebrations across Argentina and has now been given lasting recognition.

Source: YEN.com.gh