FIFA fines Argentina — FIFA has fined the Argentine Football Association (AFA) $321,000 and imposed multiple suspensions following a series of disciplinary violations during the 2026 World Cup, including the display of a banner asserting Argentina’s claim to the Falkland Islands (known in Argentina as the Malvinas) and violent clashes after the final against Spain.

The sanctions stem from several incidents, most notably after Argentina’s 2-1 semifinal victory over England, when several Argentine players held up a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (“The Malvinas are Argentine”), directly challenging British sovereignty over the disputed South Atlantic islands. FIFA cited this act as an inappropriate use of the event for non-sporting demonstrations, alongside other breaches such as discriminatory chants and gestures by Argentine fans and unsportsmanlike conduct by team members.

Violent Clashes After Final Against Spain

Following Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final, tensions escalated on the pitch. Midfielder Leandro Paredes was suspended for ten matches after grabbing Spain’s Eric García by the neck, knocking Gavi to the ground, and striking him in the face. Nahuel Molina received a seven-match suspension and a $90,000 fine for allegedly punching Rodri, Spain’s standout player, during the celebrations. Both suspensions apply to international fixtures.

Spanish midfielder Gavi, who publicly stated he did not believe Paredes should be punished, was himself suspended for one match and fined $30,000 for his role in the altercation. The same penalty was handed to Argentine player Thiago Almada. Roberto Ayala, a member of Argentina’s coaching staff, was suspended for three matches and fined $30,000 for striking Spain’s Dani Olmo in the face.

Of the total fine, $100,000 is earmarked for anti-discrimination initiatives, while another $100,000 is suspended and may be enforced if Argentina violates FIFA rules again within a specified period. Additionally, Argentina must play its next two home matches with stadiums at half capacity, though one of these restrictions is itself suspended.

The Argentine Football Association has announced plans to appeal the sanctions and, if unsuccessful, to take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). According to BBC football chief reporter Simon Stones, the severity of the penalties reflects FIFA’s concern over the global visibility of these incidents, which were broadcast to an estimated 1.5 billion viewers worldwide.