FIFA Launches Investigation into AFA and Several Argentina Players, Here Are the Alleged Violations

The International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and a number of Argentina men's national team players. These disciplinary proceedings were launched following multiple alleged violations that occurred during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This step opens a new phase after the tournament concluded, which ended with Argentina suffering a 0-1 defeat against Spain in the final match.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee has begun processing multiple official reports involving the Argentina national squad, covering both supporter behaviour as well as incidents that took place on and off the playing pitch.

As stated by FIFA on Wednesday 29 July, the alleged violations include discriminatory chants and gestures from fans, delayed match kick-offs, failure to comply with match and security protocols, display of inappropriate messaging by team personnel or spectators, and the throwing of objects from the stadium stands.

Based on preliminary findings, the AFA faces potential charges relating to non-sporting misconduct, collective team violations, racial discrimination and harassment, as well as breaches of public order and security standards during matches.

Multiple Argentina Players Also Under Investigation

Alongside proceedings against the AFA, FIFA has opened separate disciplinary cases against several Argentina players and team staff. The individuals named are Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala.

From the Spanish camp, midfielder Gavi is also subject to disciplinary proceedings in connection with incidents that unfolded after the final match.

The 2026 World Cup final held on 19 July finished with a 1-0 victory for Spain over Argentina. Moments after the full time whistle was blown, physical confrontations erupted between multiple players and backroom staff from both teams.

According to the official report from FIFA's appointed Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor, Nahuel Molina faces two separate assault charges: one count of completed assault and one count of attempted assault.

Leandro Paredes meanwhile faces three assault charges, while Roberto Ayala has been charged with one count of assault.

FIFA has also initiated disciplinary proceedings against Molina, Thiago Almada and Gavi over alleged unsportsmanlike conduct following the conclusion of the final match.

All Parties Granted Right To Present Defence

FIFA confirmed that every individual and organisation named in these disciplinary proceedings will be given full opportunity to submit their account of events before any final ruling is delivered.

All players, officials and the national federation are permitted to formally submit their defence statements and responses directly to the FIFA Disciplinary Committee.

Once all procedural steps are completed, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee will verify whether any violations are proven, and issue sanctions in full accordance with official FIFA regulations.

This case represents one of the largest disciplinary processes opened following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.