FIFA has imposed significant sanctions on three Argentina players following a scuffle that erupted moments after their World Cup final loss to Spain. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received the harshest penalty, a 10-match suspension, for his aggressive actions during the confrontation.

The incident occurred in the aftermath of Argentina's defeat, a match where tempers flared. Paredes was seen grabbing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat and pushing Gavi to the ground. This disciplinary action by FIFA places Paredes' ban among the most severe in World Cup history, drawing comparisons to Uruguay forward Luis Suarez's lengthy suspension in 2014.

In addition to Paredes' lengthy ban, defender Nahuel Molina was handed a seven-game suspension, and Thiago Almada received a one-game ban. FIFA also levied fines on the players, with Paredes and Molina each fined $90,000, and Almada fined $30,000. These sanctions effectively mean Paredes will be sidelined from the Argentina national team for approximately one year, given the typical number of international fixtures within that timeframe.

The implications of these bans extend beyond immediate competition. While the exact schedule for Paredes' suspension is dependent on the FIFA calendar, it will likely encompass all national team matches through June 2027, potentially including friendly matches. The Argentina football federation has the option to appeal these decisions through FIFA and potentially the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

Spain also saw disciplinary action, with Gavi receiving a one-game ban for his involvement in the post-match altercation. This suspension is set to be served during a Nations League match against England at Wembley on September 26. Furthermore, an Argentina coach, Roberto Ayala, was also sanctioned with a three-game ban and a $30,000 fine.

The Argentina football federation itself was fined $110,000 for a range of incidents throughout the World Cup. These included players displaying a political banner concerning the Falkland Islands after their semifinal victory over England and discriminatory chants from their fanbase. FIFA also mandated that the federation invest $100,000 in anti-racism initiatives.

This disciplinary action follows a tense final where Argentina was largely outplayed by Spain, who secured the victory with a single goal in extra time. The defeat was compounded by the red card shown to Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez earlier in the match, adding to the frustration on the field.

The FIFA sanctions underscore the governing body's commitment to maintaining discipline and fair play, even in the highly charged environment of a World Cup final. The severity of the bans reflects the seriousness with which FIFA views physical altercations and unsportsmanlike conduct during international competitions.