Fifa opens investigation into Argentina’s post-World Cup final conduct
Fifa launches investigation
Fifa has initiated an investigation into the incidents that occurred following the World Cup final, confirming that its disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor. This prosecutor will examine the events that transpired after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium. Any players or coaches found to be involved in the altercations could face suspensions, and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) may also incur fines.
The investigation follows a 1-0 defeat for Argentina on Sunday, after which members of their team and backroom staff were involved in confrontations with Spain players as they celebrated their victory. Individuals reportedly involved include Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala.
Post-match altercations detailed
As the final whistle blew, some Argentina players, including Lionel Messi, slumped to the turf, while others remained motionless as Spain’s players celebrated. The trouble reportedly began when Rodri, a Manchester City midfielder who had been substituted in extra-time, ran past Molina. Molina appeared to strike Rodri on the arm or stomach, which seemed to ignite the confrontations.
Rodri then confronted Molina, who responded aggressively. Eric Garcia intervened to support his teammate, leading to Paredes becoming involved and reportedly jabbing Garcia in the throat. Unused substitute Gavi attempted to intervene but was forced to the ground by Almada. Paredes then pushed Gavi to the floor, placing his hand in the Spaniard’s face. Ayala was also observed holding Garcia around the throat and appeared to strike Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.
Initial reports from broadcasters suggested that Paredes had received a red card from referee Slavko Vincic for his actions. However, Fifa has since confirmed that no disciplinary action was taken against Paredes at the time, and his red card was removed from the record. Enzo Fernandez was the only Argentina player officially dismissed during the match, receiving a second yellow card in second-half stoppage time.
Potential disciplinary actions
The appointment of a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor indicates that Fifa will thoroughly examine the offences, potentially leading to stronger penalties if players or the national association are found guilty. Article 13 of Fifa’s disciplinary code addresses offensive behaviour and fair play principles, suggesting that the actions could be deemed as violating basic conduct rules and bringing the sport into disrepute.
The prosecutor has the authority to consider both aggravating and mitigating circumstances and can enforce global bans. This clause was previously used in the case of former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales, who received a three-year ban from football-related activities in 2023. While it is considered unlikely that Almada, Ayala, Molina, and Paredes will face bans of similar length, the AFA has a history of facing issues related to player behaviour.
Argentina faced charges following the 2022 World Cup final for offensive behaviour and misconduct, resulting in a fine of £18,300, though no individual player action was taken. Additionally, Fifa had already initiated potential disciplinary action against Argentina at the current World Cup after players displayed a banner supporting their country’s claims to the Falkland Islands following their 2-1 semi-final victory against England. There is currently no set timeline for Fifa’s prosecutor to conclude the investigation into Argentina’s conduct.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
Amelia Stockwell is a Sports Reporter at News GB. She covered two Commonwealth Games for a national outlet. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from the University of York and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in York, she runs with a local club and follows county cricket. “The quiet stories often matter most by the end of the season.”
