FIFA suspended goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez for two of the FIFA World Cup 2026 CONMEBOL qualifiers (South America) in October, the Football Association of Argentina (AFA) confirmed on Friday.

The 32-year-old was disqualified from participating in the round-robin competition against Bolivia and Venezuela on October 10 and 15, according to the ruling.

According to a statement released by AFA, Martínez was sanctioned by FIFA’s disciplinary commission because of his actions during two World Cup qualifying matches earlier this month against Chile and Colombia.

The football association did not specify which instances resulted in the penalty.

After his side defeated Chile 3-0, Martínez made a lewd gesture by putting the Copa America trophy near his genitalia, just like he did when the South American squad won the World Cup in Qatar at the end of 2022.

He later gave a local cameraman a slap during Argentina’s 2-1 loss against Colombia in Barranquilla.

Argentina’s football body said it “absolutely disagrees” with FIFA’s decision.

The Albiceleste leads South American World Cup qualifying with 18 points after eight games, followed by Colombia (16) and Uruguay (15).

Martínez’s actions were part of a broader discussion about athlete conduct and the influence they have on fans and young players. The suspension served as a reminder that even in celebratory contexts, athletes are expected to uphold certain standards of behavior.