FIFA approves AFA request for players to serve sanctions in friendlies

FIFA has approved a request from the Argentine Football Association (AFA) allowing suspended players to serve their sanctions during friendly matches. This decision follows disciplinary actions taken after incidents during the 2026 World Cup final against Spain.

The sanctions affect several players, including Leandro Paredes (10 matches), Nahuel Molina (7 matches), Thiago Almada (1 match), and assistant coach Roberto Ayala (3 matches). Previously, regulations suggested these penalties must be served in official competitive matches, such as qualifiers.

In addition to player suspensions, the AFA faces total fines amounting to $321,000 due to various infractions during the tournament, including inappropriate behavior, security issues, and political displays. The AFA has indicated it is awaiting the formal reasoning behind FIFA's decisions to determine if it will appeal through the FIFA Appeals Committee or the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).