Argentina are set to lose a reminder of their success as they will be required to alter their kit following their World Cup final defeat to Spain.
Lionel Messi and his team-mates were floored by Ferran Torres's extra-time strike after their physical and defensive approach proved in vain in New Jersey. Argentina had been seeking to lift the trophy for the fourth time in their history, following Messi's long-awaited triumph in Qatar four years ago.
Gold Crest Must Be Removed
Since being crowned world champions, their strip had featured a gold crest displaying an outline of the trophy alongside the words "FIFA World Champions 2022". However, that celebrated addition to their iconic colour scheme must now be removed, as they are no longer the reigning World Cup holders, with Spain set to adopt the coveted gold badge for the next four years.
Argentina must wait until at least 2030 before they can add a fourth World Cup star to their shirt. They can, however, continue to display a badge commemorating their Copa America victory in 2024.
Post-Match Incidents Investigated
Argentina failed to surrender the trophy or gold badge with any degree of dignity. Following the final whistle, midfielder Leandro Paredes appeared to throw punches at members of the Spain squad as they celebrated.
FIFA reviewed the match commissioner's report and has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to examine potential violations of its disciplinary code. The South Americans drew further criticism for their physical approach - as had been the case in their semi-final victory over England - with Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez dismissed for two bookable offences.
FIFA Statement
A FIFA statement read: "Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the FIFA disciplinary code (FDC), the FIFA disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents."
"Further details will be communicated by the FIFA disciplinary committee once the prosecutor's report has been completed."
It had been widely assumed that Paredes had received a red card for his behaviour at the conclusion of the match. However, it subsequently emerged that no such card was shown. As a result, any ban or punishment handed to him would stem from a retrospective investigation that may be launched by the FIFA disciplinary committee.
