FIFA Suspends Argentina's Paredes and Molina After Final

FIFA has imposed a 10-match suspension on Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes and a seven-match suspension on teammate Nahuel Molina for their roles in post-match clashes after Argentina's 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, which took place on July 19 at the New York/New Jersey Stadium. Paredes was involved in confrontations with Spanish players, while Molina was accused of striking Spain captain Rodri during the celebrations.

FIFA's disciplinary actions followed an investigation into these incidents, with Paredes facing three counts of assault and Molina facing two assault charges and one count of unsporting behavior. Additionally, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has been fined $321,000 (£243,000) for various disciplinary breaches, including discriminatory behavior from supporters and the display of a political banner regarding the Falkland Islands after their semi-final victory over England.

The AFA must also play its next two home matches with spectator restrictions, with one match of the sanction suspended.