New Delhi: The 2026 FIFA World Cup final has it all – drama, controversy and ugly scenes. Spain beat Argentina 1-0 at the New Jersey Stadium in New York to claim the 2026 World Cup title, but the tension did not end at the final whistle. There were scuffles, heated arguments and even an apparent chokehold between players.The bad feelings carried over into the awards ceremony, with several Argentinian players turning their backs as Spain celebrated the World Cup trophy. Argentina’s players refused to watch Spain celebrate after receiving their silver medals from FIFA president Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump.Instead, when Spain won gold and lifted the World Cup trophy, they faced their supporters with their backs to the podium.Footage of the incident later went viral on social media.
Scuffles, Throat Pushing and Violent Arguments
After Spain sealed victory, there were chaotic scenes on the pitch, followed by the awards ceremony.Footage shows Argentinian midfielder Leandro Paredes appearing to grab Spanish defender Eric Garcia by the throat during a heated confrontation.When Spanish substitute Garvey stepped forward to separate the players, Paredes appeared to push him to the ground.Spain captain Rodri also appeared to be hit in the stomach by Argentina defender Nahuel Molina, before Molina and Nicolas Otamendi confronted the midfielder in a tense verbal exchange.Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni and several players arrived and calmed the situation before it escalated further.
FIFA launches investigation
Following the ugly scenes, FIFA confirmed it had launched an investigation into the incidents.FIFA said in a statement that its “Disciplinary Committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate possible breaches of the (FIFA Disciplinary Code) in post-match incidents.”
