After a week-long investigation into the scenes that overshadowed the celebration at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey after the match, FIFA also opened a number of cases against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for suspected rule violations during several different tournament matches.
Charges of unsporting behavior were also brought against Argentine Thiago Almada and Spaniard Gavi after the final.
However, the charges against L. Paredes, N. Molina, and R. Ayala are the most serious. They are accused of attacking Spaniards Gavi, Rodri, and Dani Olmo, and if found guilty, they will likely face long suspensions from international football.
“According to the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the defendants are now given the opportunity to present their position, after which the FIFA Disciplinary Committee will make a decision in due course,” the FIFA statement said.
The case directed against AFA relates to chants and messages that may have violated rules, including political references about the Falkland Islands (called Malvinas by Argentina) allegedly belonging to Argentina after the victory against England.
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After the semifinal match, Argentine players held a banner with the inscription “Las Malvinas son Argentinas,” which translates to “The Malvinas Islands belong to Argentina.” In 1982, Argentina attacked the United Kingdom trying to take control of the Falkland Islands, but the 44-day war was won by the British.
An investigation has also been launched against AFA for allegations of racist insults.
The FIFA statement says: “The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has opened a case against the Argentine Football Association for possible violations of Article 13(2)(c) (Use of a sports event for non-sporting demonstrations), Article 14(5) (Improper conduct of the team), Article 15 (Discrimination and racist abuse), and Article 17 (Order and security at matches) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, considering discriminatory chants and gestures, delayed match starts, non-compliance with match and security protocols, inappropriate messages displayed by the team and spectators, and objects thrown by spectators in several matches of the Argentine team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.”
It is stated that if guilt is proven for the assault, the players and coach would face suspensions of at least three matches. For other violations, shorter suspensions or fines may be imposed.
In the final held on July 19, Argentina lost to Spain 0-1 after Ferran Torres scored in extra time. Lionel Scaloni’s team sought to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the world champion title.
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