FIFA has initiated disciplinary proceedings involving Argentina following a series of incidents that occurred during and after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including a confrontation between players after the final against Spain.
The world football governing body confirmed that a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor has been assigned to review events surrounding Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium. The investigation will examine the conduct of players, coaching staff, and the Argentine Football Association throughout the tournament.
The most significant incident under review took place immediately after the final whistle, when tensions between players from both teams escalated into a confrontation on the pitch. Several members of Argentina’s squad and technical staff were reportedly involved in altercations with Spanish players, prompting FIFA to begin formal disciplinary proceedings.
Among those facing individual investigations are defenders Nahuel Molina and midfielder Leandro Paredes, along with Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala. They are being investigated for alleged assault-related offences under Article 14 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code.
Molina is also the subject of a separate inquiry over alleged unsporting conduct. The same allegation is being examined in relation to Argentina midfielder Thiago Almada and Spain international Gavi following incidents linked to the World Cup final.
Under FIFA’s disciplinary regulations, sanctions for unsporting behaviour can include a minimum one-match suspension, while assault offences may result in bans of at least three matches if the allegations are proven.
In addition to the individual cases, FIFA is investigating the Argentine Football Association over a number of potential breaches of tournament regulations. These include alleged misuse of sporting events for non-sporting demonstrations, team misconduct, discriminatory or racist behaviour, and possible violations of match organisation and security rules.
The governing body is also reviewing reports of discriminatory chants and gestures, delays to scheduled kick-offs, inappropriate messages displayed during matches, and objects allegedly thrown from the stands during the tournament.
One incident drawing particular attention involved Argentina’s celebrations after their semi-final victory over England. During those celebrations, members of the team displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (“The Falklands are Argentine”), referencing Argentina’s long-standing territorial claim over the Falkland Islands. FIFA is assessing whether the display breached its regulations concerning political or non-sporting messages at official competitions.
The disciplinary process will involve the examination of available evidence, including match reports, video footage, witness statements, and submissions from the parties involved before any decisions are made.
At this stage, FIFA has not announced any sanctions. The governing body is expected to complete its review before determining whether players, officials, or the Argentine Football Association will face disciplinary measures.
The outcome of the investigation could lead to suspensions for individuals found to have breached FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, while the national federation could also face separate penalties if it is found responsible for any organisational or regulatory violations during the tournament.
The inquiry follows the conclusion of a World Cup that saw Spain defeat defending champions Argentina 1-0 to lift the trophy, bringing an end to Argentina’s reign as world champions after winning the 2022 edition.
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