FIFA sanctions Argentina over the final's brawl and the Falklands banner

On July 19, the 2026 World Cup final saw confrontations at its conclusion, leading FIFA's Disciplinary Committee to impose sanctions on the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and four players. Midfielder Leandro Paredes, defender Nahuel Molina, forward Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala all received punishments for their roles in the brawl.

Paredes faced a ten-match ban and a $90,000 fine for striking Spain's Eric Garcia and Gavi, while Molina received a seven-match ban and the same fine for his altercation with Rodri. Almada was suspended for one match and fined $30,000 over his involvement with Dani Olmo. Spain's Gavi was the only sanctioned player from the Spanish side, receiving a one-match ban and $30,000 fine for his part in the altercation.

The AFA was fined a total of $321,000, with the majority, $100,000, suspended. This was due to the display of a banner claiming Falkland Islands sovereignty during the tournament, as well as racist, homophobic and discriminatory chanting and abuse by Argentine fans at five matches against Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, England and Spain.

The AFA was also ordered to close 50% of its stands at future home matches, or fill them with community groups under anti-discrimination conditions, and spend the fine on an anti-discrimination plan within six months.

Argentina maintains a sovereignty claim over the Falkland Islands, administered by the UK since 1833. The decisions can be appealed and the AFA stated they will request the grounds for the rulings to appeal to FIFA's Appeal Committee and the Court of Arbitration for Sport.