At least six Argentina players could reportedly face bans from playing in the next FIFA World Cup in 2030 following investigations into incidents at the 2026 tournament.
According to The Sun, via SportBible, the players under investigation are Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Giovani Lo Celso.
FIFA is reportedly investigating Argentina over several alleged rule breaches during and after the recently concluded 2026 World Cup.
Argentina Miss Out on Back-to-Back World Cup Titles
Argentina entered the 2026 World Cup hoping to make history by becoming the first country since 1962 to win two consecutive World Cup titles.
However, their hopes of retaining the trophy were ended by Spain in the final.
Ferran Torres scored a second-half extra-time goal to secure Spain’s second World Cup title and deny Argentina the chance to achieve back-to-back victories.
The final ended in dramatic fashion, with players from both teams becoming involved in a heated confrontation after the final whistle.
Paredes and Molina Involved in Post-Match Clash
Television cameras reportedly captured Nahuel Molina involved in an altercation with Spain midfielder Rodri during the post-match incident.
Leandro Paredes was also reportedly at the centre of the confrontation. He was accused of attacking Eric Garcia and Gavi during the melee.
Paredes was reportedly seen grabbing Garcia by the throat before pushing Gavi to the ground.
The incident has now become part of FIFA’s investigation into the behaviour of the Argentina players following the final.
Potential Punishments for Argentina Players
Paredes is reportedly being investigated for an alleged assault during the confrontation.
Molina and Thiago Almada, meanwhile, could face disciplinary action for potential unsporting behaviour.
Almada was also reportedly involved in the incident, while Gavi was mentioned in the investigation after appearing to strike Paredes during the confrontation.
If FIFA finds the players guilty of serious violations, they could face suspensions that may affect their availability for future international matches.
The possibility of bans extending into the 2030 World Cup could be a major blow to Argentina, particularly if any of the players remain important members of the national team.
Three More Players Under Investigation
The FIFA investigation reportedly extends beyond the events that took place after the World Cup final.
Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez and Giovani Lo Celso are also reportedly being investigated over an incident that occurred after Argentina’s semi-final victory against England.
The three players are accused of displaying a Falklands banner following the match.
The issue could result in further disciplinary action from FIFA if the governing body determines that the players breached its regulations.
Argentina Could Face Further FIFA Action
The investigations mean Argentina could potentially face several disciplinary decisions following the 2026 World Cup.
However, the players have not been formally banned at this stage, and FIFA’s investigation must be completed before any final decisions are made.
The length and severity of any possible punishment will depend on FIFA’s findings and the rules that the governing body determines were breached.
For Argentina, the situation could become a major concern as the country begins preparations for the 2030 World Cup.
The national team will be hoping that the investigations do not lead to lengthy suspensions for key players. Any bans that extend into the 2030 tournament could significantly affect Argentina’s squad as they attempt to challenge for another World Cup title.
For now, the players remain under investigation, with FIFA expected to assess the incidents before deciding whether disciplinary measures are necessary.
