FIFA Opens Disciplinary Case After Argentina’s World Cup Celebrations

Argentina could face discipline for alleged offensive player misconduct that reportedly took place after the World Cup final in December.

Less than a month after Argentina’s thrilling World Cup victory, the Argentine Football Association could face possible discipline from FIFA for several violations that took place during the country’s championship celebration in Qatar.

The FIFA disciplinary committee announced Friday a disciplinary case has been opened against Argentina “due to potential breaches of articles 11 (Offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play) and 12 (Misconduct of players and officials) of the FIFA Disciplinary Code.” The committee also cited violations of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 regulations “in conjunction with the Media and Marketing regulations” for the event as another reason for possible disciplinary measures. 

The alleged violations reportedly took place after Argentina defeated France in a penalty shootout following a 3-3 draw at Qatar’s Lusail Stadium on Dec. 18. Roughly three hours after the match concluded, a group of players led by captain Lionel Messi reportedly “ran and sang through the official interview area and damaged flimsy partition walls without stopping to speak to international broadcast and print media,” according to the Associated Press. 

Friday’s news is the latest fallout that has come as a result of Argentina’s celebration in the weeks since the World Cup final. FIFA previously announced it would be taking “appropriate internal action” on its security protocol after celebrity chef Nusret Gökçe a.k.a “Salt Bae” infiltrated the pitch during Argentina’s post-match celebration.