FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association and several of its players following a series of incidents during the 2026 World Cup, according to GiveMeSport. The investigations cover allegations ranging from a politically charged banner displayed after the semi-final victory over England to a mass confrontation involving players and coaching staff following the World Cup final.
Falklands banner under investigation
One of the key investigations relates to Argentina’s 2-1 semi-final win over England in Atlanta. After sealing a dramatic comeback victory, several Argentine players celebrated by displaying a banner reading “Las Malvinas Son Argentinas” (“The Falklands are Argentine”).
According to GiveMeSport, FIFA believes the display may have breached Article 13 of its disciplinary code, which prohibits the use of football matches for political or non-sporting demonstrations.
However, the governing body’s investigation extends beyond the banner itself. In a statement, FIFA confirmed it is also examining several other alleged offences involving Argentina throughout the tournament.
Read also: FIFA's $10 billion World Cup plan faces furious backlash from Football giants
The statement reads:
“in light of discriminatory chants and gestures, late kick-offs, failure to comply with match and security protocols, the display of inappropriate messages by the team and spectators and the throwing of objects by spectators in relation to several matches of the representative team of Argentina”
Those allegations could amount to breaches of Articles 14 (team misconduct), 15 (discrimination) and 17 (order and security at matches) of FIFA’s disciplinary code.
Players facing charges after final brawl
FIFA has also launched separate disciplinary proceedings over the chaotic scenes that followed Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina in the World Cup final in New Jersey.
Read also: Klopp's first act as Germany coach is a warning to the press
Five individuals have been charged over the post-match confrontation, with both players and members of Argentina’s coaching staff among those under investigation.
Boca Juniors midfielder Leandro Paredes faces the most serious allegations, having been charged with three counts of assault after allegedly shoving Spain midfielder Gavi to the ground during the melee.
Atletico Madrid defender Nahuel Molina has been charged with two counts of assault, while Thiago Almada, Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala, and Gavi have each been charged with one count of unsporting behaviour.
According to GiveMeSport, members of Argentina’s coaching staff, including former Inter Milan defender Walter Samuel, were also reportedly involved in the confrontation.
Read also: He's back: Heartbroken Messi takes major new step after World Cup final defeat
Martinez incident not yet investigated
Although footage later emerged appearing to show Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez striking Gavi in the face during the post-match scenes, FIFA has not yet opened disciplinary proceedings regarding that specific incident.
The governing body’s disciplinary committee will now review the available evidence before determining whether sanctions should be imposed on the Argentine Football Association, the players involved, or members of the coaching staff. Potential punishments could include suspensions, fines, or other disciplinary measures depending on the committee’s findings.
