FIFA Penalties Target Argentina Following World Cup Final Altercations

FIFA's Disciplinary Committee has delivered a series of penalties to the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and four national team players due to violent confrontations at the end of the 2026 World Cup final and other tournament infractions. The sanctions, announced on Friday, arise from incidents on July 19 in New Jersey, after Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes faced the harshest punishment, receiving a ten-match ban and a $90,000 fine for his involvement in a skirmish with Spain's Eric García and Gavi. Defender Nahuel Molina was also fined $90,000 and suspended for seven matches for an altercation with Rodri. Forward Thiago Almada received a one-match suspension and a $30,000 fine. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala was fined $30,000 and suspended for three matches due to an incident with Dani Olmo.

In total, the AFA was fined $321,000, including a suspended $100,000 for fan misconduct, such as racist chanting. Additionally, the association must close half of the stands at their next home match and invest in an anti-discrimination initiative within six months. The controversy extended to a banner claiming sovereignty over the Falklands, which FIFA is now reviewing.

Source: en.mercopress.com