Argentina is facing the risk of severe sanctions from FIFA following consecutive incidents at the 2026 World Cup. According to British media, six La Albiceleste players could even be banned from participating in the 2030 World Cup if found guilty of violations.
Argentina is facing the risk of heavy penalties from FIFA following a series of controversial actions during the 2026 World Cup final against Spain. According to information published by The Sun, not only the on-pitch brawls but also actions bearing sensitive messages after the tournament are being reviewed by world football’s governing body.
In the final match of the 2026 World Cup, Argentina suffered defeat against Spain after extra time, bringing an end to their title defense. After the final whistle, a number of La Albiceleste players lost their composure, leading to FIFA opening disciplinary proceedings. Notably, six Argentine players are currently said to be at risk of being banned from the 2030 World Cup, although FIFA has yet to deliver a final ruling.
According to official announcements, Nahuel Molina is under investigation for two acts of assault and one act of unsporting behavior after being filmed engaging in an altercation with Spain captain Rodri. Meanwhile, Leandro Paredes is accused of three acts of assault after grabbing Eric Garcia by the throat and pushing Gavi to the ground during the chaos. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala is also being investigated following a clash with Dani Olmo.
FIFA stated: “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has received the report from the appointed Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor regarding the incidents that occurred during the final match of the FIFA World Cup 2026… In accordance with the recommendations in the report, FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings for potential breaches of Article 14 paragraph 1(i) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (acts of assault) against Argentine players Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes and Argentine official Roberto Ayala.”
The governing body also confirmed: “FIFA has also opened disciplinary proceedings for potential breaches of Article 14 paragraph 1(b) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (unsporting behavior) against Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada and Spanish player Pablo MartÃn Páez Gavira (Gavi).” This marks the first time FIFA has publicly confirmed investigations related to post-final incidents.
Parallel to this, FIFA also opened another case regarding the “Las Malvinas Son Argentinas” banner held up by Argentine players following their semi-final victory over England. The message, meaning “The Malvinas (Falklands) Islands belong to Argentina”, is viewed as carrying sensitive implications.
According to The Sun, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, and Giovani Lo Celso were the three players pictured holding the banner, alongside Molina, Thiago Almada, and Leandro Paredes. The British newspaper noted that all six names could face bans impacting the 2030 World Cup. Although FIFA has yet to confirm suspensions, this scenario remains entirely possible because Argentina gains automatic entry into the tournament as co-hosts and will not play qualifiers, making the 2030 World Cup likely the first tournament where any imposed bans would be served.
