FIFA Launches Disciplinary Case against Argentina Over World Cup Final celebrations

By: Gyang Dakwo

FIFA has opened a disciplinary case against the Argentine Football Association for alleged offensive player misconduct and violations of fair play at the World Cup final against France.

There was a boisterous celebration by players running through the interview zone after the match on December 18, which Argentina won on penalties after a 3-3 draw at Lusail Stadium in Doha, which included an offensive song about the media.

FIFA confirmed three potential breaches of its disciplinary code: article 11, which covers offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play, article 12, which covers misconduct of players and officials, and article 44, which covers marketing regulations.

The disciplinary charges include “offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play” but do not specify Emiliano Martinez, who crudely brandished the trophy he received on the field as the best goalkeeper at the World Cup.

Martinez, who plays for English Premier League club Aston Villa, was also filmed in the dressing room mocking France star Kylian Mbappe, who had scored a hat-trick in the final.

Shortly after the match, French Football Federation President Noël Le Graët wrote to his Argentine counterpart Claudio Tapia to complain about the behaviour.

An investigation will now be conducted by FIFA, during which time Argentina will be able to respond to the charges.