Players banned, heavily fined: FIFA acts against Argentina over World Cup final

This story has significance for readers across Kenya and beyond.

- FIFA handed down a string of bans and heavy fines to Argentina players and officials following violent scenes at the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium

- Leandro Paredes received the harshest individual punishment after footage captured him in a shocking altercation involving two Spain players

- The Argentine Football Association also faces serious stadium restrictions on top of a massive financial penalty over fan behaviour during the chaos

What should have been Argentina's night of triumph turned into something far more damaging after ugly scenes broke out at MetLife Stadium following the 2026 World Cup final, in which Spain edged past the South American champions 1-0.

How did FIFA punish Argentina?

FIFA's disciplinary committee has since responded with a sweeping set of sanctions totalling 21 matches in suspensions and fines exceeding $500,000 (roughly KSh 64.75 million), making it one of the most punished post-match incidents in recent World Cup history.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes drew the stiffest individual penalty, receiving a 10-match ban and a $90,000 (KSh 11.66 million) fine.

Camera footage caught him grabbing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat before throwing Gavi to the ground in the post-match chaos.

Defender Nahuel Molina was not far behind, suspended for seven matches and fined the same $90,000 amount after he was seen striking Spain captain Rodri in the stomach during the celebrations.

Midfielder Thiago Almada picked up a one-game ban and a $30,000 (KSh 3.89 million) fine for unsporting behaviour.

Former Argentina star and team official Roberto Ayala also faced consequences, banned for three matches and fined $30,000 for assault.

Even Spain did not come away untouched. Gavi received a one-match suspension and a $30,000 fine for his role in the melee.

The punishment extended well beyond the individual players.

The Argentine Football Association was fined $310,000 (KSh 40.15 million) after fans were found to have engaged in discriminatory chanting and breached security arrangements during the final.

As a further consequence, Argentina must host their next two home internationals with reduced crowd capacity, a sanction that strikes at the heart of their passionate supporter culture.

Much of what unfolded after the final whistle was not broadcast on the main television feed, but multiple camera angles provided FIFA investigators with enough evidence to act.

All of the sanctions remain open to appeal within the standard timeframe.

What are the new VAR rules for the EPL?

In other news, the Premier League and Pro Refs introduced three VAR communication changes for the new season, aimed at improving transparency for fans.

Selected referee audio will be shared, explanations of major decisions will be published faster, and weekly findings from the independent Key Match. Incidents Panel will be made public, giving supporters greater insight into controversial calls and officials’ decision-making.

Source: TUKO.co.ke

Reporting originally appeared via TUKO. Read the full source for additional context.