No apologies: Argentina’s Leandro Paredes breaks silence after World Cup final mess against Spain as FIFA investigates | Football News
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has broken his silence after the chaotic scenes that marred the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, but stopped short of apologizing for his role in the post-match fracas as FIFA launches an official investigation into the incidents.Spain’s historic 1-0 extra-time win over Argentina to clinch their second World Cup title was overshadowed by an ugly confrontation moments after the final whistle, with Paredes among the central figures caught on camera during the clash.In his first public statement since the end, the Argentine midfielder reflected on the team’s campaign and thanked the supporters, but did not mention the violent dispute that broke out during the celebrations in Spain.“Thank you, Argentina! I love you now and always. Today, I write with a heavy heart, that I did not bring our country the happiness it so deserves. Paredes wrote on Instagram.He also praised his teammates, adding: “Thank you to everyone who has been part of this national team. To this group of players who gave their all to represent this jersey, fighting for it until the last second of every game! It’s an honor to be part of the best national team of Argentina in history.”The post, however, did not apologize or acknowledge the confrontation after the match that became the center of attention around the world.
FIFA has opened a disciplinary investigation
The governing body confirmed on Monday that it had opened disciplinary proceedings over incidents that occurred after the final whistle.In an official statement, FIFA said: “After an examination of the relevant match reports for FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in accordance with Article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the FIFA Disciplinary Committee appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate possible violations of the FIFA Disciplinary Code regarding post-match incidents.FIFA has not provided a timeline for the investigation or identification of individual players, but the appointment of a disciplinary prosecutor raises the possibility of retrospective sanctions if violations of the code are established.Earlier reports suggested that Paredes was shown a red card after the match. However, the dismissal did not remain on the official record, meaning he escaped immediate punishment on the night despite the controversy, according to a BBC report.
Violent scenes overshadowed the Spanish victory
Television footage captured several flashpoints as Spain celebrated their World Cup success.Paredes appeared to grab Spain defender Eric Garcia by the throat before punching him to the ground. When Gavi tried to intervene, the Argentine midfielder was seen pushing the Barcelona youngster to the turf and fighting him during the confrontation.Argentina defender Nahuel Molina was also involved after appearing to punch Spain captain Rodri before being tackled by the Manchester City midfielder. Veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi was seen engaging Rodri in a heated exchange of words as tensions mounted.Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and some players eventually stepped in to separate those involved and restore order.The controversy did not end there. Argentina’s players also drew criticism after they stood facing their own supporters with their backs turned as Spain collected the World Cup trophy, an act widely interpreted as disrespecting the newly crowned champions.With FIFA investigating today, Paredes’ decision to focus solely on Argentina’s pride-filled campaign – ignoring the violence that overshadowed the final – has only intensified scrutiny of the midfielder’s actions as world football awaits the governing body’s verdict.
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