FIFA has opened a disciplinary investigation into Argentina following incidents that occurred after the World Cup final against Spain, placing players, coaching staff and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) under scrutiny.
The move follows confrontations between members of the Argentina squad and Spanish players immediately after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium, prompting FIFA to appoint a special disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to examine the events.
🚨🥊 Full scenes after final whistle.@MickyJnr__ 🎥 pic.twitter.com/ZXCvAFkHwy
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 20, 2026
FIFA launches investigation
According to FIFA, a disciplinary review has been initiated to determine whether any players, officials or the AFA violated regulations relating to conduct and fair play.
The investigation will examine the incidents that unfolded as Spain celebrated its 1-0 victory and World Cup triumph.
🚨⚖️𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐒𝐇 𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒: FIFA don open investigation for the fight after the World Cup Final.
— Thiskid (@Thiskid_0) July 21, 2026
Reports say Rodri, Molina, Gavi, Paredes and Eric García all dey involved.
Decision go come after full investigation. 👀 pic.twitter.com/S0JZfbjPrG
What happened after the final whistle
Reports indicate that tensions escalated when Spanish midfielder Rodri moved to celebrate with teammates and allegedly became involved in an altercation with Argentina defender Nahuel Molina.
The situation reportedly intensified as additional players from both teams became involved.
Among the incidents under review are alleged confrontations involving Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala.
Red card controversy
FIFA initially reported that Leandro Paredes had been sent off following the incident involving Spain defender Eric Garcia.
However, the red card was later removed from the official match report, with FIFA confirming that no disciplinary sanction had been imposed at the time.
Argentina had already been reduced to 10 players following the dismissal of Enzo Fernández during stoppage time.
Previous disciplinary concerns
The investigation follows an earlier FIFA review involving Argentina over a banner displayed after the semi-final against England bearing the slogan "Las Malvinas son Argentinas".
The message, referring to the Falkland Islands dispute, was reportedly examined under FIFA regulations concerning political statements.
Possible sanctions
Under Article 13 of FIFA's Disciplinary Code, conduct deemed to violate standards of decency or bring football and FIFA into disrepute can result in sanctions.
Potential penalties may include:
- Fines
- Match suspensions
- Bans affecting players or officials
- Additional disciplinary measures against the AFA
No timetable announced
FIFA has not indicated when the investigation will conclude.
Based on previous disciplinary cases, the process could take several weeks or months before a final decision is reached.
Source: Sport-FM.gr.
