Leandro Paredes calls 10-match Argentina ban ‘excessive’ after Gavi clash

Leandro Paredes has criticised his 10-match suspension for Argentina, saying the punishment handed down over the confrontation with Spain midfielder Gavi after the 2026 World Cup final is excessive.

Paredes, who plays for Boca Juniors, was sanctioned by FIFA after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the final in the United States. He questioned why Gavi had received a one-match ban, claiming the Spain player was responsible for striking him in the chest.

“I see the punishment as excessive. The strange thing is that Gavi received one match, and he was the one who hit me in the chest,” Paredes told reporters.

“We now have to appeal and see if we can reduce the punishment, and that is all. I believe it can be reduced because it is excessive.”

The dispute between Paredes and Gavi took place after the final whistle and was one of the incidents examined by FIFA’s disciplinary committee when it announced its sanctions for the match.

Paredes has been suspended for 10 matches with Argentina. The disciplinary measures also include a seven-match ban for Argentina full-back Nahuel Molina, while assistant coach Roberto Ayala has been suspended for three matches.

Argentina midfielder Thiago Almada received a one-match suspension, matching the punishment given to Gavi.

The sanctions relate to incidents surrounding the World Cup final, which Spain won 1-0 after extra time. Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the match in the 106th minute.

FIFA also fined the Argentine Football Association $321,000 for various infringements committed during several matches at the tournament.

In addition, Argentina must play its next two home matches under restrictions on attendance. The first game will be limited to 50% of stadium capacity, while the sanction for the second match has been suspended.

That second measure will be enforced if FIFA receives another complaint concerning the behaviour of Argentina supporters.

Spain’s victory secured a second World Cup title for La Roja, following their first triumph in 2010, when they defeated the Netherlands in the final.

Argentina were unable to retain the trophy they won in 2022 and finished the tournament as runners-up. Paredes’ suspension means he could miss a significant number of the national team’s upcoming matches unless the appeal reduces the length of the ban.