FIFA bans Argentina’s Leandro Paredes for ten matches after World Cup final brawl

FIFA has imposed severe sanctions on the Argentina national team and several of its players following the post-match brawl that marred the 2026 World Cup final. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match ban, the most severe punishment, for his role in the altercation after Argentina's 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

The disciplinary committee's decision, announced on August 21, stems from the chaotic scenes immediately following the final whistle. Paredes was charged with assault for grabbing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat and wrestling Gavi to the ground. Defender Nahuel Molina was handed a seven-match suspension for striking Spain captain Rodri as he ran onto the pitch to celebrate. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala received a three-match ban for punching Dani Olmo in the face during a brief confrontation.

Spain's Gavi, who was involved in the incident with Paredes, was also suspended for one match. Argentina midfielder Thiago Almada received a one-match ban. All individual match suspensions will be served in future international fixtures. Paredes and Molina were each fined 90,000, while Ayala, Almada, and Gavi were fined 30,000 each.