FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina following a series of incidents during the 2026 World Cup, including clashes after the final defeat to Spain and alleged misconduct throughout the tournament.
The investigation comes after FIFA appointed an independent disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to review events following Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final at New York New Jersey Stadium. The review found sufficient grounds to pursue formal proceedings against several players and members of the coaching staff.
Defender Nahuel Molina is facing two allegations of assault, as well as an additional charge of unsporting behaviour. Midfielder Leandro Paredes has been charged with three alleged assaults, while assistant coach Roberto Ayala is also accused of assault.
Argentina’s Thiago Almada and Spain midfielder Gavi are both under investigation for alleged unsporting conduct linked to the post-match incidents.
Under FIFA’s disciplinary regulations, unsporting behaviour can result in a suspension of at least one match, while assault offences carry a minimum three-match ban if proven.
The Argentine Football Association is also facing disciplinary action over alleged breaches across several matches during the tournament. FIFA is examining potential violations involving the use of football matches for non-sporting demonstrations, team misconduct, discrimination and racist behaviour, as well as failures relating to order and security.
The governing body’s investigation also covers allegations of discriminatory chants and gestures, delayed kick-offs, inappropriate messages displayed by players and supporters, and objects thrown from the stands.
One of the incidents under scrutiny followed Argentina’s semi-final victory over England, when players celebrated with a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (“The Falklands are Argentine”), referencing Argentina’s longstanding claim over the Falkland Islands.