FIFA is taking disciplinary charges against Argentina's Football Association (AFA) and several of its players over their conduct during the 2026 World Cup, following a chaotic end to the final against Spain, a political banner, and allegations of racism among supporters.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three counts of assault after lashing out at Spain's Gavi during the post-match brawl, with teammate Nahuel Molina charged on two counts and assistant coach Roberto Ayala facing one. Gavi, Molina and Thiago Almada have also been charged with unsporting behaviour for their roles in the same incident.
The AFA has separately been charged over a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas", displayed by players after their semi-final win over England, in reference to the politically sensitive, disputed Falkland Islands.
FIFA cited the use of a sporting event for non-sporting demonstrations, a breach of its rules against political displays.
Further charges relate to discriminatory chants and gestures by Argentina supporters, as well as objects thrown by spectators during several matches at the tournament.
Possible sanctions range from match suspensions for players to fines, reprimands or crowd-control orders against the AFA. A full ban from future tournaments remains highly unlikely unless further offences follow.
FIFA had earlier faced accusations from fans and sections of the footballing world of favouring Argentina during the tournament.
The controversy follows widespread criticism of Argentina supporters' conduct throughout the World Cup, including a livestreamed incident targeting Black American influencer IShowSpeed, which FIFA condemned at the time.
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