FIFA Sanctions Players, Official After World Cup Final Brawl; Infantino Faces Resignation Calls

FIFA has issued suspensions and fines to four players and one official following a post-match altercation between Argentina and Spain after the 2026 World Cup Final. Argentine players Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada, along with Spain's Gavi, have been sanctioned, with Paredes receiving a 10-game ban. The Argentina Football Association also faces penalties, including restrictions on fan attendance at future home games.

Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino is facing mounting pressure and calls for his resignation. Fan groups have launched a global petition demanding his departure and a reform of FIFA, citing a "betrayal" over his previous attempt to sell future World Cup profits to private investors. Infantino is reportedly attempting to shore up his support by attending a junior tournament in the Dominican Republic, a move that has drawn criticism from within CONCACAF.