FIFA Cracks Down on Argentina After World Cup Final Chaos… Paredes Faces Serious Assault Charges, AFA Under Investigation

The aftermath of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final continues to dominate headlines, with FIFA officially opening disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA), multiple members of Argentina’s squad and one Spanish international over incidents that unfolded during the tournament.

The investigation covers two separate controversies — a post-match confrontation between players following the World Cup final against Spain and the display of a politically sensitive banner after Argentina’s semi-final victory over England.

World Cup Final Ends in Heated Confrontation

The dramatic final at the New York/New Jersey Stadium saw Spain edge Argentina 1-0 after extra time to lift football’s biggest prize.

However, celebrations quickly turned chaotic as players from both teams became involved in a heated altercation near the halfway line shortly after the final whistle. Members of the coaching staff and officials also entered the scene as tensions escalated.

Match referee Slavko Vinčić had already issued several bookings during an intense contest. FIFA later appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to examine the post-match events before deciding to initiate formal proceedings.

Paredes Faces the Most Serious Allegations

Among those under investigation, Leandro Paredes faces the most severe accusations. The Argentina midfielder has been charged with three counts of assault linked to the confrontation after the final.

Defender Nahuel Molina has been charged with two counts of assault, while Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala is facing one assault charge.

Midfielder Thiago Almada has been charged with unsporting behaviour over his role in the incident.

Spain midfielder Gavi has also been charged with unsporting behaviour following the clash between players after the match.

Why Is the Argentine Football Association Being Investigated?

Separate from the disciplinary action against individuals, FIFA is also investigating the Argentine Football Association (AFA) over a banner displayed after Argentina’s semi-final victory over England.

The banner read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”, referring to the disputed Falkland Islands, which are known as the Malvinas in Argentina.

Under FIFA regulations, political slogans and demonstrations are prohibited during official competitions. The governing body is examining whether displaying the banner violated its rules regarding the use of football events for political messaging.

This is not the first time Argentina has faced scrutiny over the issue, with FIFA having previously imposed a financial penalty over a similar incident during the 2014 World Cup.

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Additional Allegations Against the AFA

FIFA’s investigation extends beyond the banner controversy.

The AFA is also facing allegations related to discriminatory chants by supporters, delays in kick-offs, security and crowd-control concerns, breaches of match protocol and other instances of spectator misconduct reported during multiple matches throughout the tournament.

These alleged violations could result in disciplinary action if the governing body determines that regulations were breached.

What Happens Next?

FIFA has clarified that no sanctions have been imposed at this stage.

The players, coaching staff and the Argentine Football Association will be given an opportunity to present their responses before the disciplinary committee reaches a final decision.

If found guilty, those involved could face a range of punishments, including suspensions, financial penalties and other disciplinary measures against both individuals and the national federation.

With one of the most dramatic World Cup finals now followed by an equally high-profile disciplinary process, the football world will be closely watching FIFA’s next move.