Football’s governing body launches a probe into clashes involving Argentina players and staff after their defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.

ZURICH — FIFA has confirmed that Argentina will face an investigation following violent scenes that occurred after the final whistle of the World Cup final against Spain.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics investigator to examine events that took place at MetLife Stadium after the match ended.

Players and coaching staff found to have been involved in the confrontation could face individual sanctions, including possible suspensions, while the Argentine Football Association (AFA) could also receive a penalty.

Clash after Spain’s victory

The incident occurred after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 on Sunday to win the World Cup title.

As Spain’s players began celebrating their victory, several Argentina players and members of the coaching staff became involved in a confrontation with their opponents.

Argentina players Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala appeared to be among those involved.

A number of Spain players, including Rodri, Eric Garcia, Gavi and Dani Olmo, were also involved in the incident.

FIFA’s official information system initially incorrectly recorded that Paredes had received a red card from referee Slavko Vincic after an alleged confrontation with Eric Garcia. However, the red card was later removed, and FIFA confirmed to BBC Sport that no disciplinary action had been taken against him during the match.

Argentina had already received one red card during the game, with Enzo Fernandez being sent off after receiving a second yellow card in extra time.

What happened after the final whistle?

After the final whistle in New Jersey, several Argentina players, including captain Lionel Messi, fell to the ground in disappointment.

Meanwhile, Spain’s players ran across the pitch celebrating their historic victory.

The confrontation reportedly began when Rodri, who had been substituted during extra time, approached his teammates. As he passed Argentina defender Nahuel Molina, the player appeared to make contact with Rodri.

The moment sparked a heated exchange between players.

Eric Garcia then approached to support his teammate, leading to Paredes becoming involved. The situation quickly escalated as more players and staff members joined the confrontation.

Former England striker Alan Shearer criticised the scenes during BBC coverage, saying:

“There is no excuse for that. I understand how painful defeat is, but there is a way to lose.”

Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart also described the incident as disappointing, saying:

“The game is over. They cannot have any complaints about what happened today. It is unacceptable behaviour.”

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni attempted to reduce the importance of the incident and said his team understood how to accept defeat.

“We must be respectful when we win, and we must also show respect when we lose,” Scaloni said.

Possible FIFA punishment

FIFA’s disciplinary committee has several options available as it investigates the incident.

Under Article 13 of FIFA’s Disciplinary Code, authorities can take action against behaviour considered offensive, unsporting, or damaging to the reputation of football.

If players or officials are charged and found guilty, they could face fines, suspensions, or other disciplinary measures.

FIFA’s disciplinary investigators will consider both aggravating and mitigating circumstances before deciding on any punishment.

The organisation has previously used similar rules in high-profile cases.

Former Spanish football federation president Luis Rubiales was banned from football activities for three years in 2023 after he kissed Spain player Jenni Hermoso on the lips during celebrations following the Women’s World Cup victory.

Uruguay striker Luis Suarez was also banned from football activities for four months after biting Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini during the 2014 World Cup.

Argentina’s previous disciplinary issues

The investigation comes after several previous controversies involving Argentina players and officials.

Following Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory over France, the team faced criticism over some celebrations. FIFA fined the AFA £18,300, although no individual players were punished.

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was also previously suspended for two matches in 2024 for what FIFA described as offensive behaviour during World Cup qualifying matches.

The AFA is also facing possible disciplinary action over a political banner displayed by players and supporters during the tournament, which referred to the Falkland Islands dispute.

No timeline for decision

FIFA has not announced when its investigation into the Argentina incident will be completed.

The process could take weeks or months, depending on the evidence reviewed and the number of individuals involved.

The final decision will determine whether Argentina players, officials, or the national football association face further sanctions.