FIFA has handed down sanctions to three Argentina players, with midfielder Leandro Paredes receiving a 10-match suspension for his actions against Spain players following the World Cup final. Paredes, who was penalized for grabbing Eric Garcia by the throat and pushing Gavi to the ground, faces one of the most severe bans in World Cup history, comparable to Luis Suarez’s punishment in 2014.
Additionally, Argentina defender Nahuel Molina received a seven-game ban, while Thiago Almada was suspended for one game. The players were fined amounts of $90,000 US for Paredes and Molina, and $30,000 for Almada. Paredes’ suspension effectively sidelines him from the Argentina team for a year, as FIFA’s national team schedule includes 10 games until June 2027, which may consist of only friendly matches.
Spain’s Gavi was also banned for one game, specifically a Nations League match against England at Wembley on September 26. Argentina coach Roberto Ayala received a three-game ban and a $30,000 fine for his involvement in the incidents. The Argentine Football Association was fined $110,000 for various infractions during the World Cup, such as displaying a political banner regarding the Falkland Islands and discriminatory chants by fans.
Argentina is expected to appeal the sanctions and fines to FIFA and potentially to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. In a statement, the federation mentioned that they would seek clarification on FIFA’s rulings to pursue appeals.
In a historical context, Paredes’ 10-game ban mirrors Josip Simunic’s suspension in 2013 for Croatia after a World Cup qualifying playoff. The clashes during the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, defined by FIFA as assault cases, transpired after Argentina’s loss and a contentious match with minimal scoring opportunities.
Spain secured victory in the final with a goal from Ferran Torres in extra time, following a red card for Argentina’s Enzo Fernandez. As part of the disciplinary measures, FIFA instructed Argentina to host their next home game at a stadium operating at 50% capacity and deferred additional sanctions and a $100,000 fine for probationary periods.
