FIFA bans Leandro Paredes and Molina for 17 games

Argentina stars Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina have been hit with a combined 17-match suspension by FIFA following their involvement in the violent brawl that erupted after last month’s World Cup final defeat to Spain.

FIFA announced the sanctions on Friday, August 21, 2026, with Paredes receiving the heaviest punishment.

The midfielder has been banned for 10 matches and fined $90,000 (£66,000), while Molina has been handed a seven-match suspension and the same financial penalty.

Argentina have also been fined $321,000 (£235,000) for several offences during the tournament, including “using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature.”

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The charge relates notably to Argentina players displaying a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, meaning “The Falklands are Argentine”, after their semi-final victory over England.

British government officials had reportedly urged FIFA to investigate the incident, which added a political dimension to the tournament.

Other members of the Argentina delegation have also been punished. Thiago Almada has received a one-match suspension and a $30,000 (£22,000) fine, while Spain midfielder Gavi has been handed an identical punishment.

Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala has also been suspended for three matches and fined $30,000.

FKA/JKB

FKA/JKB

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