World Cup controversy haunts Argentina as FIFA opens case

In the moments after the WK-finale, a scuffle erupted on the pitch with Leandro Paredes at its centre, an image captured under the caption © REUTERSEen. The incident set the stage for FIFA’s disciplinary committee to open formal procedures against the Argentijnse voetbalbond and several of its players.

The FIFA body announced on Wednesday that it had begun investigations into possible breaches of its code covering non‑sportive expressions, team misconduct, discrimination, racist remarks and the overall order and safety of matches.

According to the federation, the probe covers discriminatory chants and gestures, delayed kick‑offs, failure to follow match‑day and safety protocols, the display of inappropriate messages by the team and spectators, and the throwing of objects by fans during various WK encounters.

After the semi‑final against England, Spelers Argentini unfurled a banner reading “De Falklandeilanden zijn Argentijns”, prompting the United Kingdom to demand an inquiry into the politically charged statement.

FIFA also named Argentine staff member Roberto Ayala and Spanish player Gavi in the disciplinary action, citing their conduct during the final between the two nations.

For Paredes, Molina and Ayala, the alleged infractions relate to the article on physical violence, while Molina, Almada and Gavi may have breached the clause on unsporting behaviour. Television footage from the WK-finale showed Paredes knocking Spanish defender Eric Garcia to the ground, gripping his throat, and then being struck with a stick by Gavi.

The procedures, described in the announcement as Google-favorietDe, underline FIFA’s intent to enforce its standards across all participants. Het decision marks a rare post‑tournament disciplinary wave targeting both players and officials.