The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has confirmed it will formally contest the disciplinary measures imposed by FIFA after the 2026 World Cup. In a statement released Friday, the federation said its legal team will request the full reasoning behind the sanctions from FIFA's Disciplinary Committee before filing appeals with the governing body's Appeal Committee. If necessary, Argentina could take the case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).
Paredes and teammates face heavy suspensions
The most severe punishment fell on midfielder Leandro Paredes, who received a ten-match suspension and a $90,000 fine for his involvement in post-match incidents following the final against Spain in New Jersey. Defender Nahuel Molina was handed a seven-match ban and a $90,000 fine, while forward Thiago Almada received a one-match suspension and a $30,000 penalty. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also sanctioned with a three-match touchline ban and a $30,000 fine. All suspensions apply to upcoming official international fixtures.
These penalties come on top of the leaked FIFA letter to Argentina that stirred debate after the final, adding to the tension between the federation and world football's governing body.
Stadium restrictions and fines for fan conduct
Beyond individual sanctions, FIFA disciplined the AFA for discriminatory chants recorded during matches against Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, England, and Spain. The federation was fined $100,000 and ordered to reduce capacity by 50 percent for Argentina's next home match. The ruling also includes a conditional probation period and mandatory anti-discrimination programs.
Additionally, the AFA received a $10,000 fine for displaying a political banner regarding the Falkland Islands after the semifinal against England, plus another $20,000 penalty for fan misconduct. These financial and operational penalties have prompted the federation to prepare a robust legal defense.
Legal strategy and next steps
The AFA's legal department will analyze the detailed disciplinary documentation to build its case. Argentine football officials believe there is room to reduce the length of the player suspensions and soften the stadium entry restrictions imposed on local supporters. The association is preparing to contest the rulings through formal judicial channels to minimize the impact on the national team ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures.
This is not the first time Argentina has faced off-field challenges. Earlier, Argentina stars hired private security in England after the World Cup semifinal win, reflecting the heightened tensions surrounding the team. The federation's decision to appeal shows its commitment to protecting its players and fans.
As the appeal process unfolds, the football world will watch closely. The outcome could set a precedent for how FIFA handles post-match incidents and fan behavior. For now, Argentina is determined to fight the sanctions and ensure its voice is heard.
