No excuses: Argentina’s Leandro Paredes breaks silence after World Cup final chaos against Spain as FIFA investigates

Spain’s Gavi, left, falls as he tackles Argentina’s Leandro Paredes (5) and Thiago Almada. (AP photo) Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has broken his silence following the chaotic scenes that marred the 2026 World Cup final, but stopped noticeably short of apologizing for his role in the post-match rants as FIFA launched an official investigation into the incidents.Spain’s historic 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina to lift their second World Cup title was marred by ugly confrontational moments after the final whistle, with Paredes among the central figures caught on camera during the melee.In his first public statement since the final, the Argentina midfielder reflected on the team’s campaign and thanked the fans, but made no mention of the violent altercation that broke out during Spain’s celebrations.“Thank you, Argentina! I love you today and always. I write today with a heavy heart because I could not bring our country the joy it so richly deserves. But with a chest full of pride for giving everything we had and flying our flag high again!” Paredes wrote on Instagram.He also praised his teammates, adding: “Thank you to everyone who was part of this national team. To this group of players who gave everything to represent this shirt, fighting for it until the last second of every game! It was an honor to be part of the best Argentine national team in history.”However, the post contained no apology or acknowledgment of the post-match confrontation, which has since become the focus of global attention.

FIFA has launched a disciplinary investigation

The governing body confirmed on Monday that it had opened disciplinary proceedings over the incidents which took place after the final whistle.In an official 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, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential violations of the FIFA Disciplinary Code in relation to the post-match incident.”FIFA did not provide a timetable for the investigation or identify individual players, but the appointment of a disciplinary prosecutor raises the possibility of retrospective sanctions if code violations are found.Earlier reports suggested that Paredes received a red card after the match. However, this dismissal did not remain on the official record, meaning he escaped immediate punishment on the night despite the controversy, according to a BBC report.

Violent scenes overshadow Spain’s triumph

Television footage captured several flare-ups as Spain celebrated their World Cup success.Paredes appeared to grab Spain defender Eric Garcia around the neck before knocking him to the ground. As Gavi tried to intervene, the Argentina midfielder was seen pushing the Barcelona youngster to the turf and wrestling with him during the confrontation.Argentina defender Nahuel Molina was also implicated after appearing to hit Spain captain Rodri before the Manchester City midfielder tackled him. Veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi was then seen engaging Rodri in a heated verbal exchange as tensions escalated.Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and several players eventually intervened to separate those involved and restore order.The disputes did not end there. Argentina’s players also drew criticism after facing their own supporters with their backs turned as Spain collected the World Cup trophy, an act many interpreted as disrespectful to the newly crowned champions.With a FIFA investigation now underway, Paredes’ decision to focus solely on Argentina’s pride-filled campaign – without addressing the violence that overshadowed the final – has only intensified scrutiny of the midfielder’s conduct as world football awaits the governing body’s verdict.