The International Football Federation (FIFA) has initiated disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for “offensive behaviour” and “violations of fair play” during and after Argentina’s thrilling victory over France in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final in Qatar. Announced on January 13, 2023, the charges also include potential “misconduct of players and officials” and breaches of media and marketing regulations, spotlighting incidents that marred the celebrations at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022.
Specific Incidents Under Scrutiny
Argentina’s 4-2 penalty shootout win after a dramatic 3-3 draw was overshadowed by actions from players and officials. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who earned the Golden Glove, drew attention for making a lewd gesture with his trophy on the podium and later mocking French star Kylian Mbappe in the dressing room, chanting “a minute’s silence for Mbappe who is dead!” Additionally, Martinez displayed a doll with Mbappe’s face during Argentina’s victory parade in Buenos Aires. Argentine players and officials also sang an offensive song about the media in the mixed zone, disrupting the press area and damaging partition walls, as reported by the Associated Press. FIFA has not named specific individuals but cited breaches of Articles 11 (Offensive behaviour and violations of fair play), 12 (Misconduct of players and officials), and 44 of the World Cup regulations.
Broader Disciplinary Context
Argentina is not alone in facing FIFA’s scrutiny. Croatia, defeated by Argentina in the semi-finals, is under investigation for potential discrimination and order and security violations, possibly linked to fans singing a song with fascist connotations after their third-place win over Morocco. Other nations faced penalties: Serbia was fined 50,000 Swiss francs (£44,000) with a 25% stadium closure for offensive chants during a 3-2 loss to Switzerland; Mexico faced a 100,000 Swiss franc (£88,000) fine and a suspended closed-door match for anti-gay chants; and Ecuador was fined 20,000 Swiss francs (£17,650) with a partial stadium closure for discriminatory chants against Chile during their opening match.
Implications for Argentine Football
The charges stem from Argentina’s boisterous celebrations, which FIFA deemed contrary to fair play principles. The AFA faces potential fines, stadium restrictions, or bans, though no timeline for the disciplinary outcome was provided. The incidents, particularly Martinez’s actions, sparked debate, with some defending them as part of football’s emotional intensity, while others, including French media, criticized them as unsportsmanlike. The disciplinary case reflects FIFA’s broader effort to enforce conduct standards, as seen in sanctions against Serbia, Mexico, and Ecuador for fan-related issues.
In Nigeria, where economic challenges like 52.2% inflation and a naira at ₦450 to the US dollar in January 2023 persist, the controversy highlights global football’s complexities. Argentina’s actions, while celebratory, underscore the need for balance between passion and respect, especially in high-stakes tournaments.
Looking Ahead
As FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee deliberates, the focus remains on ensuring accountability while preserving football’s spirit. Argentina’s triumph, led by Lionel Messi’s Golden Ball-winning performance, was a historic moment, but the fallout from their celebrations serves as a reminder of the sport’s global scrutiny. The AFA awaits FIFA’s verdict, which could impact their preparations for future competitions, including a mandated closed-door match, as reported by Al Jazeera.
