FIFA slaps Argentina with heavy sanctions.

Paredes handed 10-game ban, AFA fined over Falklands banner and fan misconduct.

FIFA has announced sweeping disciplinary measures against Argentina following the chaotic aftermath of the 2026 World Cup final, where Spain edged Lionel Messi’s side 1-0 in extra time at New York New Jersey Stadium. The governing body’s Disciplinary Committee delivered punishments that target both individual players and the Argentine Football Association (AFA), citing violent conduct, unsporting behaviour, and politically charged demonstrations.

The harshest penalty fell on midfielder Leandro Paredes, who has been banned for ten international matches and fined USD 90,000. His role in the post-match scuffle, which saw him knock down Spain’s teenage star Gavi, was deemed the most serious offense. Defender Nahuel Molina received a seven-match suspension along with the same fine, while Thiago Almada was sidelined for one game and fined USD 30,000. Team official Roberto Ayala was also punished, receiving a three-match ban and a USD 30,000 fine. On the Spanish side, Gavi received a one-match suspension and a USD 30,000 fine for his involvement in the confrontation.

Beyond individual sanctions, FIFA imposed significant penalties on the Argentine Football Association. The AFA was fined a total of USD 321,000, with USD 100,000 earmarked for anti-discrimination initiatives. Another USD 100,000 of the fine has been suspended under probation. Additionally, Argentina must play its next two home fixtures with stadium attendance capped at 50 percent, though one of those restrictions is suspended pending good behaviour.

The disciplinary committee also addressed off-field controversies. Following Argentina’s semi-final victory over England, several players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”– a reference to Argentina’s claim over the Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory. FIFA ruled this as a breach of regulations prohibiting political messaging at sporting events.

The sanctions highlight FIFA’s broader concerns about fan conduct during the tournament. Reports of discriminatory chants and gestures from Argentine supporters contributed to the severity of the punishment. By mandating investment in anti-discrimination programs, FIFA signalled its intent to curb such behaviour in future competitions.

While Argentina reached the final, the fallout from these incidents has cast a shadow over their campaign. The bans will carry over into upcoming international fixtures, leaving coach Lionel Scaloni with a depleted squad. For Argentina, the consequences extend beyond the pitch- balancing competitive setbacks with reputational damage and financial strain.