FIFA has banned Leandro Paredes for 10 Argentina matches and fined him $90,000 for his role in the post-match confrontation following Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain.
The ban applies to international matches and could keep the midfielder out of Argentina duty until June 2027.
Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Ferran Torres scored in the second half of extra time before players and staff from both sides became involved in a confrontation after the final whistle.
The Associated Press reported that FIFA found Paredes grabbed Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat and pushed Gavi to the ground during the incident. The ban does not apply to Paredes’ club football with Boca Juniors. It covers Argentina national-team matches only.
AP reported that Argentina has 10 senior fixtures on the FIFA calendar through June 2027, meaning Paredes could miss all of them under the current suspension.
Why FIFA Banned Leandro Paredes for 10 Argentina Matches
FIFA had previously opened disciplinary cases involving Paredes, Nahuel Molina and Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala following the confrontation at the end of the World Cup final.
No appeal has been announced. AP reported that Paredes can challenge the ruling through FIFA and, if necessary, take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Which Argentina and Spain Players Were Also Punished by FIFA
Defender Nahuel Molina was banned for seven Argentina matches and fined $90,000. AP reported that Molina was sanctioned for striking Spain captain Rodri during the confrontation. Thiago Almada received a one-match ban with Argentina and a $30,000 fine.
FIFA has not publicly explained the conduct that led to Almada’s suspension.
Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was banned for three matches and fined $30,000. Spain midfielder Gavi received a one-match international ban and a $30,000 fine.
AP reported that he is due to serve the suspension against England in the Nations League at Wembley on 26 September.
How FIFA's Decision Affects Argentina's International Fixtures
La Albiceleste will be without Paredes for its next 10 national-team matches if the suspension stands. Molina will miss seven fixtures, while Almada will serve a one-match ban.
The Argentine Football Association was also fined $110,000 and ordered to allocate USD 100,000 to anti-racism projects.
Football Italia reported that Argentina must play their next two home matches at 50 per cent capacity.
The measures against the federation are linked to several World Cup disciplinary issues, including non-sporting demonstrations, team misconduct, discrimination or racist abuse, and match-order and security breaches.
