FIFA has launched an investigation into the conduct of several Argentinian players following the World Cup final, where multiple altercations with Spanish opponents occurred immediately after the match concluded. Spain secured the World Cup title with a 1-0 victory in extra time.
Reports indicate that Argentinian players were involved in physical confrontations with Spanish athletes. Spain's captain, Rodri, was reportedly struck by Nahuel Molina. Argentina coach Roberto Ayala is alleged to have punched Dani Olmo. Further incidents include midfielder Leandro Paredes grabbing Eric Garcia by the neck, and with the assistance of Thiago Almada, pushing Spanish substitute Gavi to the ground.
These events transpired after a final where Spain controlled possession and created more chances, while Argentina employed physical tactics, time-wasting, and alleged unsportsmanlike conduct to disrupt play.
FIFA's Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor is reviewing match footage, referee reports, and delegate documentation. According to FIFA's Disciplinary Code, players found guilty of violent conduct, which includes punches, kicks, and other blows, typically face a minimum three-match ban. The severity of the sanction can be increased based on the seriousness of the incidents and the number of individuals involved, especially considering the global audience of the event.
Article 13 of the Disciplinary Code addresses violations of basic rules of conduct and behavior that discredit football and FIFA. While initial reports suggested Leandro Paredes received a red card, FIFA has clarified that his post-match conduct was not officially punished, and any such card was removed from the official record.
Any sanctions issued will be carried over to the players' next official matches, as per Article 69 of the Disciplinary Code. While suspensions typically affect international fixtures, past cases, such as Luis Suarez's four-month ban in 2014 for biting, demonstrate that bans can encompass all football-related activity in severe instances.
In addition to player conduct, FIFA is also examining a Falklands-themed banner displayed by Argentinian players following their semi-final win over England, which claimed the islands belong to Argentina. This could lead to sanctions against the Argentine Football Association.