FIFA Opens Disciplinary Cases Against AFA and Players After World Cup 2026

Published on July 29, 2026

Following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Spain defeated Argentina in the final, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has launched formal investigations into the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and several of its members. The probe aims to determine whether violations of the FIFA Disciplinary Code occurred during the semifinal against England and the championship match against Spain.

The Falkland Islands Flag Incident

A key focus of the investigation against the AFA is the display of a flag reading “Las Malvinas son argentinas” (The Falklands are Argentine) after Argentina’s 2-1 semifinal victory over England. Players Lisandro Martínez and Giovani Lo Celso unfurled the flag, despite a prior request from Argentine Security Minister Alejandra Monteoliva not to bring political items into the stadium.

According to reports from Ámbito and Infobae, the AFA may have breached Articles 13, 14, 15, and 17 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, which cover non-sporting demonstrations, improper conduct, discrimination, and stadium security. A precedent exists: in the 2014 World Cup, the AFA was fined by FIFA for a similar flag incident. Possible penalties range from fines of USD 5,000 to USD 20,000 to playing matches behind closed doors.

Individual Charges for the Final Brawl

In addition to the institutional case, FIFA has opened individual proceedings for the altercation that broke out at the end of the final against Spain. The accused are Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, assistant coach Roberto Ayala, and Spanish player Gavi.

  • Leandro Paredes: 3 charges for alleged assault (Art. 14.1.i) after a confrontation with Gavi.
  • Nahuel Molina: 2 charges for assault (one completed, one attempted) for his clash with Rodri, and 1 charge for unsporting conduct (Art. 14.1.b).
  • Roberto Ayala: 1 charge for alleged assault after a dispute with Dani Olmo.
  • Thiago Almada and Gavi: 1 charge each for unsporting conduct.

What Happens Next?

The opening of these proceedings does not imply automatic sanctions. Under the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the accused parties and the AFA will have the opportunity to present their defenses and evidence. After reviewing the case, the Committee will issue a ruling. Possible sanctions, which could include suspensions of 1 to 3 matches or fines, are expected to apply to the Argentine national team’s upcoming commitments, such as the September 2026 FIFA international window.

This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as the disciplinary process unfolds.