Argentina have faced criticism throughout the 2026 World Cup, but the post-final altercation is currently being investigated by the FIFA disciplinary prosecutor.
Published July 24, 2026
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente called the incident “unbearable and unacceptable” as FIFA investigated Argentina’s actions after the World Cup final.
FIFA asked one of its disciplinary prosecutors on Monday to report on the violent on-field clash that followed Spain’s 1-0 win in extra time on Sunday, stripping the defending champions of their title.
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Argentina’s midfielder Leandro Paredes got into a physical tangle with Spain’s Eric Garcia and Gabi, while Spain’s captain Rodri hit Argentina’s defender Nahuel Molina in the stomach when he ran past him.
“It is unacceptable,” de la Fuente told Spanish public broadcaster TVE on Thursday, adding that she did not see the incident while “celebrating with others.”
“In any case, I don’t think it’s possible or acceptable for such comments to come from players of that level, who I’ve admired for a long time and who have a great manager,” the Spanish coach said.
FIFA did not provide details of the investigators’ powers or whether they would be able to request witness statements from Spanish players and staff.
Argentina national team assistant coach Roberto Ayala apologized on Wednesday for his confrontation with Dani Olmo, saying he shoved him rather than punched him.
De la Fuente praised the players for how they handled the situation at MetLife Stadium in an interview with TVE.
“I want to emphasize our behavior when faced with such aggression and provocation,” the coach said. “Our players always remained calm and acted like true professionals.”
The Spanish team stood in a guard of honor as Argentina’s athletes made their way to the podium to receive their medals from US President Donald Trump. A few minutes later, as Rodri lifted the trophy, most of the Argentina squad turned their backs for a ceremonial moment.
FIFA’s disciplinary rules allow the special prosecutor to “request the initiation of disciplinary proceedings and recommend the imposition of disciplinary measures against member associations, clubs or individuals”.
It is unclear when a potential suspension for the Argentine player would be enforced, as FIFA has not released a timeline for any incident and the team has no official matches scheduled for the next few months.
