FIFA took disciplinary action against three players from Argentina following incidents in the World Cup final against Spain. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a 10-match suspension for his actions, which included grabbing Eric Garcia by the throat and pushing Gavi to the ground. This punishment is one of the most severe in World Cup history, comparable to the sanctions imposed on Luis Suarez in 2014.

In addition to Paredes, defender Nahuel Molina was banned for seven matches, and Thiago Almada received a one-game suspension. FIFA also fined Paredes and Molina $90,000 each, and Almada $30,000. Paredes’ ban effectively sidelines him from the Argentina team for a year, as the national team’s schedule includes 10 games up to June 2027, all potentially friendly matches.

Spain’s Gavi was also banned for one game, specifically a Nations League match against England at Wembley on Sept. 26. Furthermore, Argentina coach Roberto Ayala was given a three-game ban and a $30,000 fine.

The Argentine Football Association faced penalties as well, including a $110,000 fine for various incidents during the World Cup, such as players displaying a political banner after the semifinal win against England and discriminatory chants by fans. FIFA mandated that the AFA allocate $100,000 towards anti-racism initiatives. Argentina received $34 million in prize money from the World Cup.

AFA has the option to appeal the sanctions and fines to FIFA and potentially to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The federation stated that it would request the grounds for reviewable rulings from FIFA to pursue appeals.

The clash in the World Cup final led to on-field altercations, which FIFA categorized as assault cases. Following Argentina’s loss to Spain, FIFA disciplined the team, including ordering the next home game to be played at a stadium with 50% capacity. FIFA also postponed a second stadium sanction and a $100,000 penalty for probationary periods.