FIFA has opened an official investigation into the Argentina national team following the unfortunate events that occurred at the end of the 2026 World Cup final against Spain, which ended with the Spanish matadors winning 1-0 and claiming the title.
FIFA has revealed the appointment of a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the clashes that erupted after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium, with the possibility of imposing suspensions on the players or coaching staff involved, as well as a financial penalty on the Argentine Football Association.
According to reports, the end of the match saw altercations and clashes between players from both teams, with Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, and Thiago Almada, along with assistant coach Roberto Ayala, being among the key participants in the incident.
Footage revealed that the spark ignited after Spain's players celebrated their title win, before a clash occurred between Molina and Spanish midfielder Rodri, quickly escalating into a mass brawl that saw the involvement of Paredes, Gavi, Eric Garcia, and Dani Olmo.
Despite initial reports suggesting Leandro Paredes was sent off, FIFA later confirmed that the red card was overturned, and no disciplinary action was taken against him during the match. Enzo Fernandez was the only player to receive a red card after being shown a second yellow during stoppage time.
Article 13 of FIFA's disciplinary regulations stipulates penalties for any behavior that violates the principles of fair play or tarnishes the reputation of football, which could lead to international suspensions if violations are proven.
The disciplinary file does not only focus on the events of the final, as FIFA is also examining the incident involving Argentina players raising a political banner following their victory over England in the semi-finals, which could expose the Argentine Football Association to additional sanctions.
