What Sanctions Could Argentina Face After the 2026 FIFA World Cup Controversies?

World football's governing body launched disciplinary proceedings 10 days after the World Cup final over several incidents involving the reigning champions. Here's everything you need to know.

FIFA has confirmed the opening of disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA), several Argentina players, and Spain midfielder Gavi over incidents that occurred after the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final at New York/New Jersey Stadium.

In addition to the altercations following the match, FIFA is also reviewing the display of messages considered inappropriate, including the “Las Malvinas son argentinas” (“The Falkland Islands are Argentine”) banner shown by Argentina players during celebrations after their semifinal victory over England, as well as alleged racist and discriminatory incidents involving supporters and members of the Argentine national team during the tournament.

The investigation is based on a report prepared by FIFA’s appointed ethics investigator and includes possible violations of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.

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WHAT WILL FIFA INVESTIGATE?

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee confirmed that the case against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) is based on possible violations of Articles 13, 14, 15, and 17 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. However, FIFA clarified that opening proceedings does not mean the federation has been found guilty, but rather that a formal investigation will now determine whether any violations occurred.

Article 13.2.c addresses the use of sporting events for messages unrelated to football. Article 14.5 refers to improper team conduct, while Article 15 covers acts of discrimination and racist behavior. Finally, Article 17 focuses on match order and security.

According to FIFA, the investigation includes several incidents reported during Argentina’s World Cup campaign, including discriminatory chants and gestures, delays in kickoffs, alleged breaches of security protocols, inappropriate messages displayed by the team and supporters, and objects thrown from the stands.

IS THE “LAS MALVINAS SON ARGENTINAS” BANNER INCLUDED?

One of the most discussed points is the banner reading “Las Malvinas son argentinas” (“The Falkland Islands are Argentine”), displayed by Argentina players after securing their place in the final by defeating England in the semifinals.

Although FIFA’s statement does not specifically mention the banner, it does state that the investigation includes inappropriate messages displayed by the team and supporters. In addition, FIFA regulations prohibit the use of sporting events to promote political, ideological, religious, or offensive messages.

Under that framework, the banner could be considered part of the disciplinary review, as FIFA analyzes whether certain expressions went beyond the sporting context.

WHO IS UNDER INVESTIGATION FOR THE FINAL INCIDENTS?

Alongside the case against the AFA, FIFA has opened individual investigations involving Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, Roberto Fabián Ayala, a member of Lionel Scaloni’s coaching staff, and Spanish midfielder Gavi.

The disciplinary actions stem from incidents that occurred after the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

According to the report submitted by FIFA’s ethics and disciplinary investigator, Nahuel Molina faces two alleged assault charges—one completed offense and one attempted offense—along with a charge of unsporting conduct.

Leandro Paredes faces three alleged assault charges, while Thiago Almada and Gavi are being investigated for possible unsporting conduct. Roberto Ayala is also included in the case for an alleged act of aggression during the post-match incidents.

FIFA will review footage, referee reports, and collected evidence before issuing a final decision. The AFA and all individuals involved will have the opportunity to present their defenses before any potential sanctions are determined.

FIFA STATEMENT

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken the following measures regarding incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup™:

Argentine Football Association (AFA)
FIFA has opened proceedings against the AFA for possible violations related to the use of sporting events for non-sporting messages, improper conduct, discrimination and racist behavior, and match order and security issues.

The investigation considers reports of discriminatory chants and gestures, delays in match starts, breaches of match and security protocols, inappropriate messages displayed by the team and supporters, and objects thrown by spectators during Argentina’s matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup™.

Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, Roberto Ayala (Argentina) and Pablo Martín Páez Gavira “Gavi” (Spain)
FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings following incidents during the Spain vs. Argentina World Cup Final.

The proceedings include possible assault violations against Molina, Paredes, and Ayala, as well as possible unsporting conduct charges involving Molina, Almada, and Gavi.

In accordance with the FIFA Disciplinary Code, all parties involved have been given the opportunity to present their defense before the Disciplinary Committee issues a final ruling.