FIFA has imposed 21 combined match bans on Argentina players and staff. The sanctions follow a mass confrontation after the World Cup final.
The governing body confirmed the punishments on Friday. The disciplinary case began after FIFA announced an investigation in July.
Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final. The match ended with heated scenes as Spanish players celebrated their victory.
Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes received the strongest punishment. He was given a 10-match ban and fined $90,000.
According to FIFA, Paredes grabbed Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat. He also threw Spanish midfielder Gavi to the ground.
Argentina defender Nahuel Molina received a seven-match suspension. He was also fined $90,000 for his actions during the confrontation. FIFA said Molina struck Spain midfielder Rodri in the stomach. Rodri had entered the pitch while celebrating Spain’s historic victory.
Argentine attacking midfielder Thiago Almada received a one-match suspension. He was also fined $30,000 for unsporting behaviour.
Argentina team official Roberto Ayala received a three-match suspension. He was fined $30,000 for an assault-related offence. Spain midfielder Gavi was the only Spanish player sanctioned. He received a one-match ban and a $30,000 fine.
FIFA also imposed financial penalties on the Argentine Football Association. The AFA was fined a total of $310,000. The federation must also hold its next home match at 50 percent stadium capacity. Another partial closure has been suspended under an unspecified probation period.
FIFA said the penalties cover several disciplinary areas. These include discrimination, racist abuse, match security and non-sporting demonstrations. The governing body will allocate $100,000 from the AFA fine. The money will support a plan aimed at combating discrimination.
The disciplinary case also included an earlier incident from the tournament. Argentina players celebrated their semi-final win over England with a political banner. The banner carried the message, “Las Malvinas son Argentinas.” It first appeared among supporters before being taken onto the pitch.
FIFA said the parties received formal notification of the disciplinary decisions. They have 10 days to request a detailed decision.
The sanctions remain subject to the appeal process. The AFA has also indicated that it could challenge the decisions. The Argentine federation said it may approach the Court of Arbitration for Sport. It described that option as a last resort.
The latest FIFA decision adds significant disciplinary consequences for Argentina. The players and officials could now miss several upcoming international matches.
In other news read more about Spain Beat Argentina 1-0 in Extra Time to Win FIFA World Cup 2026 Title
The case highlights FIFA’s strict rules regarding player conduct and stadium security. Further developments are expected as the appeal process continues.
