Leandro Paredes might dodge FIFA punishment for what happened in the World Cup final because of a loophole.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes might avoid a FIFA ban, even though he’s been charged with three counts of assault after the World Cup final.
Paredes was involved in some rough moments after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in New Jersey. He grabbed Spanish defender Eric Garcia by the throat and then wrestled Spain’s midfielder Gavi to the ground. His teammate Thiago Almada helped him in the scuffle with Gavi. Both Paredes and Almada are among several players charged by FIFA after the investigation.
Argentina’s right-back Nahuel Molina faces two assault charges and a charge of unsporting behavior. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala is also charged with one assault count. Almada and Gavi have been charged with unsporting behavior as well.
Paredes faces the most serious consequences with three assault charges. According to FIFA’s rules, players found guilty of violent actions like hitting or kicking can get at least a three-match ban. So, if Paredes is found guilty of all charges, he could face a minimum nine-match suspension.
However, the 32-year-old midfielder has hinted he might retire from international football after the World Cup final. That would mean any ban on him internationally might not take effect. FIFA can choose to apply suspensions worldwide, but it’s rare to do so unless the offense is very serious, such as discrimination or match-fixing.
Paredes’ charges don’t fall under those specific serious categories, though FIFA can still decide case by case. For example, Luis Suarez got a worldwide ban in 2014 after biting a player during a World Cup match.
After the final, Paredes didn’t talk about the incidents. Instead, he praised his teammates and fans on Instagram, calling it an honor to be part of the best Argentine team in history. This made people wonder if he was thinking about retiring.
When he returned to his club, Boca Juniors, Paredes told reporters he wasn’t sure about his future. He said, “It’s been an amazing journey. It will be hard to keep this level and the team spirit going. I need time to think calmly. I don’t know yet if I’m ready to continue. It’s something I have to carefully consider.”