Fifa investigates Argentina over World Cup final disturbances
The Argentine Football Association faces potential disciplinary action as Fifa reviews conduct under Article 13 following Spain’s 1-0 victory.
Argentina is likely to face a Fifa investigation and subsequent disciplinary proceedings following altercations between players and staff after the 2026 World Cup final. The incident occurred at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 19 July 2026, shortly after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 to claim the title.
Fifa is currently reviewing official match reports to determine if charges should be brought under Article 13 of its disciplinary code. This article covers conduct bringing the sport into disrepute, a clause previously utilised in high-profile cases involving offensive behaviour and violations of fair play principles. The disciplinary committee is assessing actions that may be judged as violating the basic rules of decent conduct.
Key figures identified in the post-match fracas include Argentina’s Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala. Reports indicate that Paredes initially appeared to push Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat, although this red card was removed from the official record shortly after the match. Argentina had already seen Enzo Fernandez dismissed with a second yellow card in second-half stoppage time.
The altercations were ignited when Spain’s Rodri confronted Molina, leading to a physical exchange involving multiple players. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was also seen appearing to hold Garcia around the throat and striking Spain midfielder Dani Olmo. Former England internationals Alan Shearer and Joe Hart criticised the behaviour during broadcast coverage, describing the scenes as disgusting and terrible.
This investigation follows a pattern of disciplinary issues involving the Argentine Football Association. The federation is already facing potential fines for a banner displayed after the semi-final against England referencing the Falkland Islands. Previous incidents include misconduct by goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who was banned for two games in 2024 for offensive behaviour during World Cup qualifiers.
Fifa’s disciplinary committee has the power to enforce bans globally and will consider both aggravating and mitigating circumstances. While three-match bans for violent conduct are an option, the use of Article 13 suggests a focus on the broader implications of the players' and staff's conduct. A decision on any potential charges is expected to take several weeks, similar to the timeline following the 2022 World Cup final.
