Argentina has been subject to disciplinary action by FIFA for “offensive behaviour” and “fair play infractions” during and immediately following their World Cup-winning victory against France in Qatar.
The AFA has also been accused of possibly violating rules on media and marketing during the competition, as well as “misconduct of players and officials.” FIFA has not yet identified the specific targets.
After the game, Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez made a sexual gesture with the championship trophy before being caught on camera making fun of Kylian Mbappe of France in the locker room.
Following their victory over France at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Argentina’s players and officials also sung an inflammatory song about the media while enjoying themselves in the mixed zone, one of the press areas.
Croatia, who lost to Argentina in the semi-finals, is also under investigation for possible violations including prejudice as well as match order and security.
In further disciplinary cases, following “chants by Serbian supporters and team misbehaviour” during their 3-2 defeat by Switzerland in a Group G game, Serbia has been fined 50,000 Swiss francs (£44,000) and given a partial stadium closure – 25% of seats closed – for their next “A level” international;
Mexico and Ecuador have suffered consequences for supporters’ chanting. While Ecuador must pay a fine of 20,000 Swiss francs (£17,650) and risk having part of their stadium closed for their next game, Mexico has been fined 100,000 Swiss francs (£88,000) and sentenced to play a home game behind closed doors, suspended for a “probationary term.”
