FIFA has lodged disciplinary charges against two Argentina players and a coach for assaulting Spanish opponents moments after the World Cup final on July 19, 2026, which Spain won 1-0 after extra time. Midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three charges of assault, defender Nahuel Molina faces two, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala faces one.

Additionally, Argentina's football federation has been charged for players displaying a political banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" (The Malvinas are Argentine) after their 2-1 semifinal victory over England. This banner references the disputed Falkland Islands, prompting calls from British government officials for FIFA to investigate.

FIFA's disciplinary proceedings also address other allegations against Argentina, including discriminatory chants and gestures by fans, alleged assault by an assistant coach after the final, and throwing of objects by spectators during several matches at the tournament.

FIFA stated that all charged parties have been given the opportunity to present their positions, with decisions to be issued by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee in due course. The proceedings target potential breaches related to using sports events for non-sporting demonstrations, team misconduct, discrimination, racist abuse, and order and security at matches.

The incidents occurred during the 2026 FIFA World Cup held in the United States, with the semifinal match played at Atlanta Stadium on July 15, 2026.

Sources