FIFA reversal leaves Leandro Paredes free of automatic ban after World Cup final brawl | OneFootball

FIFA has reversed course on Leandro Paredes’ red card after the World Cup final melee, leaving the Argentina midfielder without an automatic ban. The move came a day after the mass brawl that followed Spain’s win at MetLife Stadium.

Paredes had been identified in post-match footage, confronting Spain players, gripping Eric García by the neck and dragging Gavi to the turf. Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic then issued a red card once the game had finished. BBC reports that the dismissal was later omitted from the referee’s report to FIFA, so no automatic suspension could be applied.

With the offence not officially recorded, he remains free of disciplinary punishment for now. It marked a notable U-turn after early expectations that the ex Roma and PSG midfielder would face a multi-game ban.

The case is not closed. FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee is still investigating incidents involving several Argentina personnel after the defeat to Spain.

Under review are Nahuel Molina, who punched Rodri in the chest, Thiago Almada, who also struck Gavi, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala, who hit Dani Olmo.

The governing body is also assessing other episodes during the tournament, notably a banner backing Argentina’s Falkland Islands claims after the semi-final against England, which could lead to separate measures. FIFA is still gathering reports and footage, and further action cannot be ruled out once the disciplinary process concludes.

Source: Superdeporte