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Games news took a dramatic turn on Aug. 21, 2026, after FIFA handed Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes a 10-match suspension for his conduct following the World Cup final defeat to Spain. The punishment is among the harshest ever issued for incidents connected to a World Cup match.
FIFA also suspended Argentina defenders Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada, while imposing significant financial penalties on the Argentine Football Association. The disciplinary decisions follow a heated final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where Spain defeated Argentina after extra time.
Games Ban Rocks Argentina After Explosive World Cup Final
Paredes received the longest suspension after FIFA disciplinary judges ruled that he assaulted Spain players during the post-match confrontation. According to the report from ESPN News Services, Paredes grabbed Eric García by the throat and pushed Gavi to the ground after Argentina’s loss.
The midfielder was fined $90,000 in addition to the 10-game ban. Since Argentina’s current FIFA schedule includes 10 national-team matches through June 2027, the suspension could effectively keep Paredes out of the squad for an entire year.
Although the national team does not currently have competitive matches scheduled during that stretch, the ruling could affect friendlies, preparation camps and future squad selections. Paredes will therefore miss important opportunities to rebuild his international standing.
FIFA Delivers Severe Punishments
The sanctions extend beyond Paredes. FIFA issued the following penalties:
- Nahuel Molina: Seven-match suspension and a $90,000 fine.
- Thiago Almada: One-match suspension and a $30,000 fine.
- Roberto Ayala: Three-match suspension and a $30,000 fine.
- Gavi: One-match suspension for Spain.
- Argentine Football Association: $110,000 fine and a $100,000 investment in anti-racism projects.
Gavi’s one-game ban will be served in Spain’s Nations League meeting with England at Wembley on Sept. 26. The Spanish midfielder was involved in the final confrontation after being pushed to the ground by Paredes.
FIFA also ordered Argentina to play its next home game in a stadium operating at 50% capacity. A second stadium sanction and an additional $100,000 fine were deferred for probationary periods, meaning further disciplinary problems could trigger tougher consequences.
Argentina Faces Additional Fallout Over Banner and Chants
The case involved more than the final brawl. FIFA fined the Argentine Football Association for several incidents during the tournament, including the display of a political banner concerning the Falkland Islands after Argentina’s semifinal victory over England.
The banner caused criticism from politicians in the United Kingdom. Argentina also faced disciplinary action over discriminatory chants from supporters. As part of the ruling, FIFA instructed the federation to spend $100,000 on anti-racism initiatives.
The decision has added pressure on Argentina’s football leadership. The federation received $34 million in World Cup prize money, but the latest fines and restrictions could create a costly reputational and organizational setback.
Argentina Plans to Challenge the Games Sanctions
The Argentine Football Association has indicated that it will seek the full reasoning behind FIFA’s decisions before filing appeals. The federation may first take the case to FIFA’s appeal committee and could later appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
“The AFA legal department will, in a timely manner, request from FIFA the grounds for the reviewable rulings,” the federation said in a statement. It added that it retained the option of pursuing the matter at CAS as a final recourse.
The possibility of an appeal means the punishment may not be the final word. However, unless FIFA or CAS changes the ruling, Paredes faces a lengthy absence from Argentina’s upcoming games and Molina will also miss a substantial portion of the national-team calendar.
Why the Decision Matters for Future Soccer Games
FIFA has historically treated violent conduct and discriminatory behavior seriously, particularly when incidents occur during high-profile international games. Paredes’ 10-match suspension ranks alongside major historical punishments, including Luis Suárez’s 2014 ban after biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini at the World Cup.
The length of the ban also matches the 10-game suspension given to Croatia’s Josip Simunic in 2013 for leading supporters in a chant associated with the country’s pro-Nazi regime during World War II.
For Argentina, the immediate concern is squad depth and discipline. Paredes remains an experienced midfielder, while Molina has been an important defensive option. Their absences could force the coaching staff to test younger players during upcoming international games.
The final itself was already controversial and tense. Spain forward Ferran Torres scored the only goal in the second period of extra time after Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off. Argentina created few chances and struggled to control the match before the post-game confrontation escalated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was Leandro Paredes banned for 10 games?
FIFA suspended Paredes for grabbing Spain’s Eric García by the throat and pushing Gavi during the confrontation after Argentina’s World Cup final defeat.
How much was Leandro Paredes fined?
Paredes was fined $90,000 by FIFA in addition to his 10-match suspension.
How long could Paredes be absent from Argentina games?
Because Argentina has 10 national-team matches scheduled through June 2027, the suspension could effectively keep Paredes out for about one year.
Was Argentina fined as a federation?
Yes. The Argentine Football Association was fined $110,000 and ordered to spend another $100,000 on anti-racism projects.
Can Argentina appeal the FIFA decision?
Yes. The federation plans to request FIFA’s reasoning and may appeal through FIFA’s appeal committee before turning to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
