FIFA Argentina Red Card Investigation Unfolds After World Cup Final Brawl in New Jersey

FIFA has launched a formal disciplinary investigation into post-match violence that erupted after Spain defeated Argentina in the World Cup final in New Jersey, with particular focus on midfielder Leandro Paredes despite reports suggesting he received a red card that were later contradicted.

What Happened After the Final Whistle

Chaos broke out immediately following the full-time whistle as Spain's substitutes rushed onto the pitch to celebrate their second World Cup championship in the nation's history. Argentina defender Nahuel Molina initiated the trouble by throwing an aggressive arm strike toward Spain captain Rodri near the halfway line. The incident rapidly escalated when midfielder Paredes sprinted across the field and physically attacked Spain midfielder Eric Garcia, first shoving him to the ground before grabbing him by the throat as a linesman attempted to intervene.

The violence continued as Paredes then wrestled Spain midfielder Gavi to the turf, pulling at his substitute training bib while pushing into his face. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni was forced to sprint across the field to help calm his losing players and protect Garcia from further attacks by his own teammates.

Clarification on Red Card Reports

Initial reports from broadcasters including ITV and BBC indicated that Paredes had been shown a red card by referee Slavko Vincic. However, FIFA sources clarified to The Independent that no such dismissal occurred. Paredes did not appear on FIFA's official match record as having received a red card—he was only shown a yellow earlier in the match when he entered at half-time. The only player officially sent off was Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who received a second yellow card for a late challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi during second-half stoppage time.

Formal Investigation Underway

FIFA confirmed it has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code regarding the post-match incidents. The governing body stated that "further details will be communicated once the prosecutor's report has been completed." Argentina now faces disciplinary proceedings as a result of the conduct displayed by multiple players following the final whistle.