Argentina players could face FIFA ban after 2026 World Cup final chaos against Spain

NEW DELHI: Argentina’s World Cup final defeat by Spain could have further ramifications, with FIFA launching an investigation into the post-match clashes that broke out after Sunday’s final at New York’s New Jersey Stadium in New Jersey.Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time to claim their second FIFA World Cup title, but the celebrations were overshadowed by heated confrontations between players from both teams after the final whistle.

Heated scenes after the World Cup final

Several Argentina players were involved in confrontations during Spain’s celebrations. Visuals of the ugly scenes soon went viral on social media platforms.Leandro Paredes and Thiago Almada were seen wrestling Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground. In another incident, Paredes appeared to grab Spain defender Eric Garcia by the neck.Nahuel Molina also appeared to attack Spain midfielder Rodri as he ran to celebrate with his teammates.Experienced defender Nicolas Otamendi has been involved in a heated exchange with Rodrigo over comments allegedly made by Spain defender Aymeric Laporte ahead of the final. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala clashed with Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.

What kind of punishment could Argentina’s players face?

Under Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, players found guilty of violent conduct face a minimum three-match suspension.The same minimum ban also applies to offenses involving: assaulting, elbowing, punching, kicking, biting, spitting, striking an opponent or a person other than a match referee. Any suspension would apply when Argentina play their next official matches.If FIFA concludes that the national team has behaved improperly, it could face disciplinary action in addition to player action bans. Players and officials can also be fined, while FIFA can impose additional sanctions if necessary.

FIFA confirmed the disciplinary investigation

FIFA announced that it had appointed a prosecutor to investigate the incidents after examining match reports.In a statement, FIFA said: “After evaluating the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup Final between Spain and Argentina and in accordance with Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential violations of the FDC with regard to post-match events.”“Further details will be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the public prosecutor’s report has been completed.”

Argentina already under the microscope of FIFA

The World Cup finalists are already facing another possible disciplinary case linked to their 2-1 semi-final win over England. After this match, several Argentina players displayed a banner reading: “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”. The slogan translates to “The Falklands are Argentina”.