Fifa launches investigation into post-final incidents
Fifa launches investigation into post-final incidents
Fifa has confirmed an investigation into the events that unfolded after the World Cup final, following the Argentina team’s behaviour. A disciplinary and ethics prosecutor has been appointed by Fifa’s disciplinary committee to assess the incidents that occurred after the final whistle at MetLife stadium. This investigation could lead to suspensions for any players or coaches involved, and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) may also face a fine.
The altercations took place after Argentina’s defeat on Sunday. Members of the Argentina team and backroom staff were reportedly involved in confrontations with Spain players as they celebrated their victory. Among those appearing to be involved were Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala.
Initially, Fifa reported that Paredes had been sent off by referee Slavko Vincic for pushing Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat. However, this red card was later removed from the record, and Fifa confirmed that no disciplinary action was taken at that time. Argentina had already seen one player dismissed during the match, with Enzo Fernandez receiving a second yellow card in second-half stoppage time.
Details of the post-match fracas
As the final whistle sounded in New Jersey, some Argentina players, including Lionel Messi, slumped to the turf, while others remained motionless as Spain’s players celebrated. The trouble reportedly began when Manchester City midfielder Rodri, who had been substituted in extra-time, ran past Molina. The Argentina defender appeared to strike Rodri on the arm or stomach.
This incident reportedly ignited the subsequent confrontations. Rodri confronted Molina, who then thrust forward aggressively. Eric Garcia intervened to support his teammate, at which point Paredes became involved, reportedly jabbing Garcia in the throat. Unused substitute Gavi attempted to intervene but was forced to the ground by Almada. Paredes then pushed Gavi to the floor by placing his hand in the Spaniard’s face.
Assistant coach Ayala was also seen appearing to hold Garcia around the throat and then seemingly striking Spain midfielder Dani Olmo. Football pundit Alan Shearer commented on the coverage, stating that Paredes “threw two or three haymakers into someone’s face. He went for them,” adding that there is “no place or space for that.”
Joe Hart described the behaviour as “disgusting.” Despite the incidents, Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni, who tried to calm the situation, appeared to downplay them in his post-match interview. He stated, “We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat. Today, we are showing that we know how to lose. We lost the match, and we accept it, but that doesn’t mean we stop living or forget everything we did to get here.”
Potential disciplinary actions and precedents
Fifa’s disciplinary committee has several options available. By appointing a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor, Fifa will examine the offences in greater detail, moving beyond just potential violent conduct. This approach could lead to stronger punishments if players or the national association are charged and found guilty.
Article 13 of the disciplinary code addresses offensive behaviour and the principles of fair play. The actions of the players and staff could be deemed as “violating the basic rules of decent conduct” and “behaving in a way that brings the sport of football and/or Fifa into disrepute.” The prosecutor will consider both aggravating and mitigating circumstances, with the authority to enforce global bans.
Past cases include the ban of then-Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales for three years in 2023 following his actions after Spain’s Women’s World Cup final win. Additionally, Uruguay striker Luis Suarez was suspended for four months from all football-related activity for biting an opponent at the 2014 World Cup.
While it is considered unlikely that Almada, Ayala, Molina, and Paredes will face bans of similar length, the AFA has encountered issues with player behaviour in recent years. Following the 2022 World Cup final, Argentina faced charges related to “offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play” and “misconduct of players and officials.”
However, Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez received a two-game ban in 2024 for ‘offensive behaviour’ during World Cup qualifiers. The AFA is also facing a probable fine at this World Cup for a banner displayed after their semi-final win against England, which read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas.” In 2014, the AFA was fined for a similar banner. There is no set timeline for Fifa’s prosecutor to conclude the investigation into Argentina’s conduct.
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Source: bbc.com
