FIFA launches investigation after mass brawl in World Cup 2026 final

FIFA has officially opened a disciplinary investigation into the ugly scenes that erupted after the final whistle of Sunday’s World Cup final. Spain’s triumph – their second men’s world title – was overshadowed by a chaotic fight involving players and coaching staff from both Argentina and Spain on the MetLife Stadium pitch. The winning goal came in the 106th minute of extra time. Seconds after the game ended, chaos broke out. Television footage showed Argentina’s Leandro Paredes and Nahuel Molina lunging at Spanish defenders Eric García and Rodri. Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala was then caught on camera striking Dani Olmo. Tempers flared further as Molina continued to push Rodri, while former Manchester City teammate Nicolás Otamendi directed verbal abuse at the same Spanish midfielder. Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni and several players rushed in to break up the brawl and restore order. FIFA acted swiftly, confirming the appointment of a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess the incident. “Following an evaluation of the relevant match reports for the final stage of the FIFA World Cup between Spain and Argentina, and in accordance with article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC in relation to post-match incidents,” the governing body said in a statement. Any further details and possible sanctions – including fines and suspensions – will only be announced once the prosecutor submits a full report.