FIFA hands out heavy sanctions to Argentina over World Cup final unrest

FIFA has issued a series of sanctions against Argentina national team representatives following unrest that broke out after this summer's World Cup final, in which Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time.

Post-final unrest

At the center of the incident was Leandro Paredes, who grabbed Eric Garcia by the neck after the match and later got into a physical altercation with Gavi. For this conduct, Paredes received a ten-match suspension and a fine of 90,000 US dollars. His teammate Nahuel Molina was hit with the same fine amount but a seven-match ban.

Notably, Gavi, who was on the receiving end of the altercation, later said he believed Paredes should not be punished. Gavi himself, however, did not avoid sanctions either — he received a one-match ban and a 30,000-dollar fine.

Other figures connected to the Argentina squad were also sanctioned. Coaching staff member Roberto Ayala struck Dani Olmo after the match, resulting in a 30,000-dollar fine and a three-match suspension from national team duty. Player Thiago Almada received a one-match ban as well.

Sanctions against the federation

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) did not escape punishment either. The men's national team must play its next two home matches with stadium capacity capped at 50%, though one of these sanctions is suspended. AFA was also fined 321,000 US dollars, of which 100,000 must be invested in anti-discrimination initiatives, while another 100,000 was imposed as a suspended fine with a probation period. As a result, AFA must immediately pay out 221,000 dollars.

Part of the punishment stemmed from a separate incident — a banner referencing Argentina's claim over the Malvinas (Falkland) Islands, displayed by players after their semifinal win over England.

AFA plans to appeal the sanctions.