Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was not sent off following the chaotic scenes that erupted after his nation's World Cup final defeat to Spain, FIFA sources have clarified. This contradicts initial reports from major broadcasters, including ITV and BBC, which suggested Paredes had received a red card for his involvement in a post-match brawl.
The melee unfolded on Sunday in New Jersey immediately after the final whistle, as Spain's substitutes rushed onto the pitch to celebrate their victory. Tensions flared when Argentina defender Nahuel Molina reportedly threw a punch at Spain captain Rodri. The situation escalated further when Paredes became involved in a violent altercation, grabbing Eric Garcia by the throat and pushing him to the ground. He then wrestled Spain's Gavi to the turf, pushing into his face while holding him by his substitute bib. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni was seen sprinting across the pitch to intervene and calm his players.
Despite the widespread reporting of a red card for Paredes, FIFA's match centre for the final only shows him receiving a yellow card shortly after being introduced as a substitute at half-time. There is no official record of referee Slavko Vincic issuing a red card to the midfielder. The only player officially dismissed during the match was Paredes' teammate Enzo Fernandez, who received a second yellow card for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi in second-half stoppage time.
FIFA has confirmed it has launched an investigation into the full-time incidents, appointing a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor. A statement from the governing body confirmed: “Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the Fifa World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the Fifa Disciplinary Code (FDC), the Fifa Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents.”
The investigation will delve into the actions of multiple players and the overall conduct following what was a highly charged and dramatic World Cup final. Further details are expected to be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the prosecutor’s report has been finalised.