FIFA has opened a disciplinary investigation into violent scenes that followed Argentina‘s World Cup final defeat to Spain on Sunday, with several players facing potential suspensions for their roles in post-match clashes.
The probe centres on incidents immediately after the final whistle, when midfielder Leandro Paredes was shown a red card for grabbing Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat and throwing Barcelona’s Gavi to the ground during a touchline brawl. The former Roma and Juventus player, already dealing with the disappointment of losing the final, reacted violently after an exchange with the Spanish midfielder.
Footage also appeared to show Argentina defender Nahuel Molina striking Spain captain Rodri in the stomach as he entered the pitch to celebrate. The disturbance overshadowed Spain’s victory and required physical intervention from Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni and assistant Walter Samuel to prevent further escalation.
The post-match dismissals compounded a fractious evening for Argentina. Enzo Fernández had already been sent off during normal time by referee Slavko Vincic, who also booked Scaloni and three other Argentina players.
Gavi later revealed the comment that triggered Paredes’s reaction. “I simply asked him: ‘Didn’t Infantino answer your calls this time?'” the 21-year-old told Spanish media. “The moment I said it, he completely lost his head. What did I want to tell him? That football has finally beaten corruption.”
The disciplinary investigation extends beyond the final. FIFA is also examining Argentina’s conduct following their semi-final victory over England, when players displayed a banner proclaiming “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” [The Falklands are Argentine], referring to the disputed South Atlantic islands. The flag was smuggled into the stadium in Atlanta by supporters. Football’s governing body strictly prohibits political statements by teams or players, leaving those involved at risk of additional sanctions.
In a statement, FIFA confirmed that a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor had been appointed under Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code to examine potential breaches. The committee’s findings could result in substantial bans for the players and officials involved.