FIFA Suspends Leandro Paredes for 10 Games Over World Cup Final Clash

FIFA has suspended Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes for 10 international matches over his involvement in the post-match clash that followed Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Paredes was also fined $90,000 after FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee ruled on the incidents that occurred after Spain’s 1-0 victory over Argentina at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.

The midfielder was involved in a confrontation with Spanish players after the final whistle. Reports said Paredes grabbed Spain’s Eric García by the throat before wrestling Gavi to the ground, escalating the post-match altercation.

FIFA had opened disciplinary proceedings against Paredes over three alleged counts of assault following the incident.

Paredes received the heaviest individual punishment among the players involved. His Argentina teammate Nahuel Molina was handed a seven-match suspension and a $90,000 fine, while Thiago Almada received a one-match ban and $30,000 fine. Spain’s Gavi was also suspended for one match and fined $30,000.

Argentina’s assistant coach, Roberto Ayala, was handed a three-match suspension and fined $30,000.

The Argentine Football Association was also fined $321,000 over several disciplinary breaches, while Argentina was ordered to play its next two home matches with a 50 per cent spectator restriction, although one match of the sanction is suspended.

The sanctions are subject to appeal, according to the disciplinary ruling.