Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has broken his silence following the chaotic scenes at the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, but made a notable failure to apologize for his role in the post-match brawl as FIFA launches a formal investigation into the incidents.Spain’s historic 1-0 victory over Argentina in extra time to claim a second World Cup title was overshadowed by an ugly confrontation shortly after the final whistle, with Paredes one of the central figures in the melee, which was caught on camera.In his first public statement since the final, the Argentine midfielder reflected on his team’s performance and thanked supporters but made no mention of the violent brawl that broke out during Spain’s celebrations.“Thank you, Argentina! I love you today and always. Today I write this with a heavy heart because I was unable to bring the joy our country deserves. But I am filled with pride because I have given everything we have and once again fly our flag at the highest point!” Paredes wrote on Instagram.He also praised his team-mates, adding: “Thank you to everyone in this national team. Thank you to this group of players who have given everything for this jersey, fighting until the last second of every game! It’s an honor to be part of the best Argentina national team in history.”However, the post offered no apology or acknowledgment of the post-match clash, which later became the focus of worldwide attention.
FIFA launches disciplinary investigation
The governing body confirmed on Monday that disciplinary proceedings had been initiated over the incident after the final whistle.FIFA said in an official statement: “After evaluating the relevant match reports, fifa world cup For the final between Spain and Argentina, in accordance with Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate possible breaches of the FIFA Disciplinary Code in post-match incidents. “FIFA did not provide a timetable for the investigation or identify individual players, but appointed a disciplinary prosecutor with the potential to impose retroactive sanctions if breaches of the code are found.It was previously reported that Paredes was shown a red card after the game. However, the dismissal was not retained in official records, meaning he escaped immediate punishment that night despite the controversy, the BBC reported.
Scenes of violence cast a shadow over Spain’s victory
Television footage captured several highlights as Spain celebrated its World Cup success.Paredes appeared to grab Spanish defender Eric Garcia by the throat before pushing him to the ground. When Garvey tried to intervene, the Argentina midfielder was seen pushing the Barcelona youngster to the turf and grappling with him during the confrontation.Argentina defender Nahuel Molina was also involved, appearing to punch the Manchester City midfielder before he confronted Spain captain Rodri. Veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi then got into a heated verbal exchange with Rodri as tensions escalated.Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni and several players eventually intervened to separate those involved and restore order.The controversy didn’t end there. Argentina’s players also drew criticism for standing with their backs to their supporters as Spain lifted the World Cup trophy, with many seeing the behavior as disrespectful to the newly crowned champions.With a FIFA investigation underway, Paredes’ decision to focus solely on Argentina’s pride-filled game without addressing the violence that overshadowed the final will only intensify scrutiny of the midfielder’s conduct as world football awaits the governing body’s verdict.
