FIFA has launched a disciplinary investigation into Argentina following their World Cup final defeat to Spain, after post-match incidents including an apparent brawl and a political banner.
Post-Match Chaos in New Jersey
Chaos broke out at the full-time whistle in East Rutherford, New Jersey, as Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes appeared to throw punches at members of the Spain squad celebrating their victory on the pitch. The match commissioner's report was reviewed by FIFA, which has now appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FIFA disciplinary code.
Argentina's physical approach drew criticism, similar to their semi-final win over England, with Enzo Fernandez sent off for two bookable offences. Paredes was not sent off during the match, meaning any suspension would arise from the retrospective investigation.
Political Banner Controversy
It remains unclear whether FIFA is also investigating Argentina players for holding up a banner proclaiming Argentinian sovereignty over the Falkland Islands after their victory over England. This action appears to contravene Article 34.3 of tournament regulations. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) was fined for the same act following a 2014 friendly against Slovenia, while UEFA imposed one-match bans on Spain’s Rodri and Alvaro Morata for chanting about Spain's claims to Gibraltar after winning Euro 2024.
FIFA has previously threatened a hard line on political gestures. The English FA was warned that Harry Kane would face sporting sanctions, starting with a yellow card, if he wore a 'OneLove' rainbow-coloured armband at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where homosexuality is criminalised.
FIFA Statement
“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,” said a statement. “Further details will be communicated by the FIFA disciplinary committee once the prosecutor’s report has been completed.”
PA understands that the investigation will focus on the post-match brawl and the political banner, with potential sanctions ranging from fines to player suspensions.
