FIFA Imposes Harsh Penalties Following 2026 World Cup Final Events

The FIFA disciplinary committee has imposed harsh sanctions on several players and officials from the Spain and Argentina national teams, following the events and clashes that occurred during the 2026 World Cup final between the two teams, which took place on July 19 at the New York New Jersey stadium.

The most significant punishment was handed to Argentine Leandro Paredes, who has been suspended for 10 matches and fined over €77,000 for assaulting Spanish national team player Gavi. Nahuel Molina also received a 7-match ban and a similar fine after being involved in the initial altercation by striking Rodri.

The sanctions also included Roberto Ayala, assistant coach of the Argentine national team under Lionel Scaloni, who has been suspended for three matches and fined nearly €26,000. Additionally, both Thiago Almada and Gavi have received one-match suspensions, along with fines exceeding €26,000 each.

Barcelona's star midfielder Gavi is set to miss the upcoming Nations League clash against England.

FIFA's decisions were not limited to individuals, as the disciplinary committee imposed fines on the Argentine Football Federation exceeding €235,000 due to violations related to team conduct, the use of the sporting event for non-sporting purposes, as well as incidents linked to discrimination, chants, and discriminatory and racist gestures from some fans, in addition to violations concerning order and security within matches.

The Argentine Football Federation has been mandated to play its next two home matches with a limited crowd of 50%. Approximately €86,000 of the imposed fine will be allocated to implementing a discrimination prevention plan. FIFA clarified that part of the penalty has been suspended and placed under a probationary period. The involved parties have a 10-day window to request a reasoned decision, with the possibility of appealing according to the established disciplinary regulations.