World Cup: FIFA punishes Argentina for post-match brawl against Spain
What's the story
FIFA has handed out severe punishments to Argentina following a series of incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Lionel Messi-led team reached the final but lost to Spain. Ferran Torres scored the lone goal of the contest in the 106th minute at MetLife Stadium. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received the harshest punishment, a 10-match ban and a fine of $90,000, for his involvement in post-match brawls after Argentina's loss to Spain in the final.
Additional sanctions
Other players and officials also sanctioned
Along with Paredes, Argentina defender Nahuel Molina has been handed a seven-match ban.
Thiago Almada and team official Roberto Ayala have received shorter suspensions for their roles in the post-match brawl.
Spain midfielder Gavi has also been punished for his involvement in the incident.
These sanctions were announced after FIFA's investigation into the events that transpired after the final whistle of Spain's 1-0 extra-time victory at New York/New Jersey Stadium on July 19.
AFA fined
AFA fined $321,000
The disciplinary action has also been extended to the Argentinian Football Association (AFA), which FIFA has fined a total of $321,000.
The governing body found the AFA guilty of using a sporting event for non-sporting demonstrations, team misconduct, discrimination and racist abuse, and order and security at matches.
The discrimination-related breach stemmed from discriminatory chants and gestures by Argentina supporters during the tournament.
Match restrictions
Two-match spectator ban imposed on AFA
The AFA has also been ordered to play its next two home matches with a limited number of spectators (50%).
FIFA clarified that the implementation of one of those two-match sanctions has been suspended for a probationary period.
One incident that drew FIFA's attention was a political message displayed after Argentina's semi-final victory over England.
Several Argentine players were seen with a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas," which translates to "The Malvinas are Argentine."
Do you know?
FIFA had launched disciplinary action against Argentina
Last month, FIFA initiated disciplinary action against AFA and several of its players. The move came after a series of alleged violations during the World Cup, including a banner asserting territorial claims over the Falkland Islands. Meanwhile, disciplinary proceedings were also opened against several players after the final match.
Twitter Post
Suspensions!
🚨 OFFICIAL: FIFA suspensions following post Argentina-Spain clash, including 10 games ban for Paredes, 7 for Nahuel Molina and 1 for Pablo Gavi.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 21, 2026
🇦🇷 Paredes: 10-game ban + $90,000 fine
🇦🇷 Molina: 7-game ban + $90,000 fine
🇦🇷 Almada: 1-game ban + $30,000 fine
🇦🇷 Ayala: 3-game ban… pic.twitter.com/FP8YWumcc7