FIFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Argentina FA, three players over Falklands banner and World Cup final brawl

Published Jul 29, 05:02 PM UTC

FIFA's disciplinary committee has opened proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA), three players, and a coach following incidents at the 2026 World Cup final and a controversial Falklands banner display. Leandro Paredes faces three counts of assault for grabbing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat and throwing Gavi to the ground during post-match brawls after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain. Nahuel Molina is charged with two counts of assault and one of unsporting behavior for striking Spain's Rodri. Coach Roberto Ayala faces one assault count. The AFA is charged with using a sports event for non-sporting demonstrations, discrimination, racist abuse, and security failures related to the display of a 'Las Malvinas son Argentinas' banner after Argentina's win over England. The banner references the disputed Falkland Islands, a British territory claimed by Argentina. The White House defended Argentina's right to free speech regarding the banner.