FIFA investigates Argentina, viral petition after World Cup final altercations

The 2026 World Cup final ended not only with Spain's 1-0 victory over Argentina, but also with a series of post-match altercations that have sparked a FIFA disciplinary investigation and a record-breaking online petition calling for Argentina's expulsion from the tournament.

The altercations

Immediately after the final whistle, tensions erupted. According to video evidence cited by multiple outlets, Nahuel Molina struck Spain's Rodri as he ran to celebrate, prompting a confrontation Source: Clarin. Leandro Paredes then grabbed Eric García by the neck and threw Gavi to the ground, resulting in a red card Source: Infobae. Assistant coach Roberto "Ratón" Ayala also punched Dani Olmo Source: Infobae. Spain's players celebrated, but the Argentine team largely gave them the cold shoulder during the trophy ceremony, with many players turning their backs Source: La Vanguardia.

FIFA investigation

On July 20, FIFA announced a disciplinary investigation under Article 36 of its code, covering the incidents and potential unsporting behavior Source: ABC. The probe includes Paredes, Molina, Ayala, and other players, with possible suspensions ranging from 2 to 12 matches Source: Excelsior.

Fan reactions

Meanwhile, a petition titled "Argentina Out" gathered over 23 million signatures, just short of the Guinness World Record Source: Euronews. During Spain's victory parade, fans displayed a banner reading "Velada del Año VII: Paredes vs Gavi," which players like Lamine Yamal and Fabián Ruiz acknowledged with amusement Source: Infobae, contrasting the tense on-field atmosphere.