Overview
- Television footage from Sunday’s World Cup final shows Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes grabbing Spain’s Eric García by the throat and pushing Gavi to the ground during chaotic scenes after Spain’s 1-0 extra-time win.
- FIFA has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the post-match incidents under article 36 of its disciplinary code, and no public sanctions have been announced while the probe is active.
- Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala has publicly apologised for his role in an altercation with Spain’s Dani Olmo and says the contact was a shove rather than a punch.
- Spain midfielder Gavi, who was involved in the scuffle, has urged that Paredes not be suspended, and Boca Juniors confirmed Paredes returned to Argentina, trained normally and asked to be included in upcoming matches as the club assesses a reported rib injury.
- FIFA’s review will rely on match reports, broadcast video and statements after an initial incorrect red‑card entry for Paredes was removed from FIFA’s commentator system, and the investigation could lead to player suspensions, fines or federation penalties depending on the prosecutor’s findings.