FIFA has issued severe disciplinary sanctions against several members of the Argentina squad and coaching staff following a violent on-field altercation that erupted after the World Cup final. The incident occurred at the New York-New Jersey Stadium after Argentina suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in extra time, resulting in a loss of the championship title. Tensions boiled over immediately after the final whistle, leading to a physical confrontation between the two teams.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes received the harshest penalty, facing a 10-match ban and a $90,000 fine. FIFA’s disciplinary committee determined that Paredes initiated part of the chaos by tackling Spain’s Gavi to the ground and subsequently grabbing Eric Garcia by the throat. His teammate Nahuel Molina was handed a seven-match suspension and a $90,000 fine for his role in the brawl, which reportedly began when he struck Spain captain Rodri.
Further disciplinary measures were taken against other individuals involved in the post-match unrest. Thiago Almada has been suspended for one match and fined $30,000, while team official Roberto Ayala faces a three-match ban alongside a $30,000 fine. Spain’s Gavi was also sanctioned with a one-match suspension and a $30,000 fine for his involvement in the altercation.
Beyond the final match incident, Argentina also faced penalties regarding a separate controversy involving a banner about the Falkland Islands displayed after their semi-final victory over England. In total, the Argentine Football Association has been ordered to pay $321,000 in fines for various disciplinary breaches. FIFA has confirmed that all individual player suspensions will be enforced during their respective teams’ upcoming matches.
