According to a report by the American entertainment and sports television network ESPN on August 21, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee issued a statement on that day, announcing penalties for various violations committed by Argentina during the 2026 World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada. The Argentine Football Federation was fined $321,000, the number of spectators at three upcoming home matches will be restricted, and three players and one coaching staff were banned from participating in matches.
FIFA stated that the Argentine Football Federation violated several provisions of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, including discriminatory statements and gestures towards fans, improper behavior by teams, and use of sporting events for non-sports-related demonstrations. As a result, a fine of $321,000 was imposed. Of this fine, $100,000 is suspended, and another $100,000 will be used for an anti-discrimination action plan.
FIFA also restricted the number of spectators at two upcoming home matches in Argentina, with the seating capacity being no more than 50% of the stadium's capacity.
Regarding the match between Argentina and Spain in the World Cup finals, Argentine player Leandro Paredes was banned from playing for 10 matches and fined $90,000; Naver Moline was banned from playing for 7 matches and fined $90,000; Tiago Almadra was banned from playing for 1 match and fined $30,000; Argentine team coach Roberto Ayala was banned from playing for 3 matches and fined $30,000.
Regarding the disciplinary decision by FIFA, the Argentine Football Association responded in a statement saying: “The Argentine Football Association's legal department will appeal to FIFA's Appeals Committee and reserve the right to appeal further to the International Sports Arbitration Court.”
