FIFA upholds Paredes' ten-match ban

FIFA upheld a 10-match ban for Paredes following World Cup 2026 final incidents, though reduced Molina's suspension from 7 to 4 matches.

FIFA's Appeals Committee partially upheld sanctions imposed after incidents during the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. Leandro Paredes retains his 10-match ban and $90,000 fine, while Nahuel Molina's suspension was reduced from 7 to 4 matches and his fine cut from $90,000 to $60,000.

The sanctions stemmed from discriminatory chanting during the final in July, which Spain won 1-0, and on-field incidents between players after the final whistle. The AFA also received a $321,000 fine, confirmed by the Appeals Committee. Thiago Almada received a one-match ban and technical staff member Roberto Ayala three matches; Spain's Gavi received one match.

The AFA said it will request the full reasoning behind the decisions to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), believing it has sufficient legal grounds to challenge the rulings.