Fifa has confirmed it is launching an investigation into the chaotic scenes that unfolded after the World Cup final on Sunday, which saw players from Argentina and Spain involved in a series of altercations. The global football governing body has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to examine potential breaches of its Disciplinary Code following Spain's victory in New Jersey.
The post-match melee began as Spain's substitutes rushed onto the pitch to celebrate. Reports indicate that Argentina defender Nahuel Molina appeared to strike Spain captain Rodri, before midfielder Leandro Paredes became embroiled in further clashes. Eyewitness accounts and broadcast footage showed Paredes grabbing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat and shoving him to the ground, then wrestling Gavi to the turf and pushing into his face while holding his substitute bib.
Contrary to widespread initial reports from broadcasters, including ITV and BBC, Fifa sources have clarified that Paredes was not shown a red card for his actions. Fifa's official match centre for the final also confirms this, showing Paredes only received a yellow card earlier in the game after coming on as a half-time substitute. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni was seen attempting to intervene and calm his players amidst the escalating tension.
The only player officially sent off during the final was Argentina's Enzo Fernandez, who received a second yellow card in second-half stoppage time after a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi. Fifa's statement indicated that the investigation follows an assessment of relevant match reports, in line with article 36 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code (FDC). Further details are expected to be communicated once the prosecutor's report is complete.
The incident has cast a shadow over what was otherwise a thrilling World Cup final, prompting questions about player conduct and the enforcement of disciplinary rules in high-stakes matches. The brief announcement from Fifa did not specify a timeline for the inquiry nor did it name any specific players under investigation beyond those involved in the public incidents.