FIFA took action against three Argentine players, imposing suspensions following an incident with Spanish opponents post the World Cup finale. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a hefty 10-match ban for aggressive behavior towards Spain’s Eric Garcia and Gavi. This penalty is considered one of the most severe in World Cup history, akin to the sanctions imposed on Uruguay’s Luis Suarez in 2014.

Additionally, defender Nahuel Molina faced a seven-game suspension, while Thiago Almada received a one-game ban. The fines amounted to $90,000 US for Paredes and Molina, and $30,000 for Almada. Paredes effectively faces a year-long exclusion from the Argentine team due to the FIFA national team schedule, which spans 10 games until June 2027, potentially all being friendly matches.

Spain’s Gavi was also banned for a single game, the Nations League clash against England at Wembley on September 26. Furthermore, Argentina coach Roberto Ayala was handed a three-game ban and a $30,000 fine. The Argentine Football Association was fined $110,000 for various incidents during the World Cup, including political displays and discriminatory chants.

Argentina is expected to appeal the sanctions to FIFA and potentially to the Court of Arbitration for Sport. Notably, Paredes’ 10-game ban echoes the punishment given to Croatia’s Josip Simunic in 2013 for a similar offense. The altercations during the recent final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, were categorized by FIFA as assault cases.

Following the final where Spain emerged victorious, FIFA also mandated that Argentina’s next home game must take place in a stadium operating at 50% capacity. Additionally, FIFA deferred further sanctions and a $100,000 penalty for probationary periods.