FIFA opens disciplinary case against Argentina after 2026 World Cup final

• FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina following incidents after the 2026 World Cup final.
• The charges target several Argentine players and officials, while the Argentine Football Association also faces allegations over political messaging and fan misconduct.

FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against Argentina following a series of incidents during and after the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, which Spain won 1-0 on July 19.

The governing body charged several Argentine players and team officials over altercations involving Spanish players after the final whistle, while also investigating political displays and fan behavior during the tournament.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes has been charged with three counts of assault, while defender Nahuel Molina faces two assault charges.

Assistant coach Roberto Ayala has also been charged with assault.

In addition, Molina and Thiago Almada have been charged with unsporting conduct. Spain midfielder Gavi is facing the same charge.

FIFA also charged the Argentine Football Association with using a sporting event for "non-sporting purposes" after Argentina's players displayed a banner reading, "The Malvinas are Argentina," following their 2-1 semifinal victory over England.

The incident prompted calls from English football authorities and British government officials for an investigation.

The Falkland Islands, known as the Malvinas in Argentina, remain the subject of a long-running sovereignty dispute between the United Kingdom and Argentina dating back to the 1982 war.

Argentina is also facing disciplinary action over alleged discriminatory chants by supporters and the throwing of objects during several matches at the tournament, which was hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

FIFA said all parties have been given the opportunity to present their responses before its Disciplinary Committee issues final rulings and any potential sanctions.