FIFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Argentina over post-final altercations and tournament conduct

Published Jul 29, 05:21 PM UTC

FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina following their behavior after the 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain and throughout the tournament. The world governing body appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess post-match altercations at the New York New Jersey Stadium, where multiple Argentina players and backroom staff were involved in confrontations with Spain players after a 1-0 defeat. Specific charges include alleged assault against players Nahuel Molina (two counts) and Leandro Paredes (three counts), and assistant coach Roberto Ayala (one count) under Article 14 of FIFA's disciplinary code. Molina also faces a charge of unsporting behavior, while teammate Thiago Almada and Spain midfielder Gavi face similar accusations. The Argentinian Football Association faces broader proceedings for potential breaches including using a sports event for non-sporting demonstrations (relating to a Falkland Islands banner displayed after the semi-final win over England), team misconduct, discrimination, racist abuse, and breaching order and security at matches. Penalties range from at least one-match suspensions for unsportsmanlike conduct to at least three matches for assault.