FIFA investigates Argentina FA, players over alleged World Cup violations

GENEVA, July 29 (Xinhua) -- FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and several Argentina players over alleged breaches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, world football's governing body announced on Wednesday.

The FIFA Disciplinary Committee opened proceedings against the AFA following incidents involving Argentina's national team during several matches at the tournament.

According to FIFA, the alleged breaches include discriminatory chants and gestures by supporters, delayed kick-offs, failure to comply with match and security protocols, the display of inappropriate messages by the team and spectators, and objects being thrown from the stands.

FIFA said the AFA could face charges relating to demonstrations of a non-sporting nature, team misconduct, discrimination and racist abuse, as well as order and security at matches.

Separate proceedings have been opened against Argentina players Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada, team official Roberto Ayala, and Spain player Gavi over incidents following the World Cup final between Spain and Argentina.

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final on July 19, after which several Argentina players and staff were involved in confrontations with their Spanish counterparts.

According to a report by FIFA's appointed Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor, Molina faces two alleged counts of assault, one completed and one attempted, while Paredes faces three alleged counts of assault and Ayala one.

Proceedings have also been opened against Molina, Almada and Gavi over alleged unsporting conduct.

FIFA said all respondents had been given the opportunity to present their positions before the Disciplinary Committee issues its decisions. ■