Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes has broken his silence following the chaotic scenes that marred the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, but remarkably stopped short of apologizing for his role in the post-match debacle as FIFA launched an official investigation into the incidents.Spain’s historic 1-0 extra-time win over Argentina to lift their second World Cup title was overshadowed by a nasty clash moments after the final whistle, with Paredes among the central figures caught on camera during the melee.In his first public statement since the final, the Argentina midfielder reflected on the team’s campaign and thanked supporters, but made no reference to the violent altercation that broke out during Spain’s celebrations.“Thank you, Argentina! I love you today and always. Today, I write with a heavy heart, not having been able to bring our country the joy it so richly deserves. But with a chest full of pride to have given everything we had and to have raised our flag high once more!” Paredes wrote on Instagram.He also praised his teammates, adding: “Thank you to everyone who was part of this national team. To this group of players who gave everything to represent this shirt, fighting for it until the last second of every match! It was an honor to be part of the best Argentine national team in history.”The post, however, does not contain an apology or recognition of the post-match confrontation that has since become the focus of attention around the world.
FIFA opens a disciplinary investigation
The governing body confirmed on Monday that it opened a disciplinary procedure in the incidents that developed after the final whistle.In an official statement, FIFA said: “After an evaluation of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in accordance with article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code, the FIFA Disciplinary Commission has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethical Prosecutor to investigate potential violations of the FIFA Disciplinary Code regarding post-match incidents.”FIFA has not provided a timetable for the investigation or identifying 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 had been shown a red card after the match. However, that dismissal was not on the official record, meaning he escaped immediate punishment on the night despite the controversy, according to a BBC report.
Violent scenes overshadow the triumph of Spain
Television footage captured several flashpoints as Spain celebrated their World Cup success.Paredes appeared to grab Spain defender Eric Garcia around the throat before pushing him to the ground. When Gavi tried to intervene, the Argentine midfielder was seen pushing the Barcelona youngster to the turf and grappling with him during the confrontation.Argentina defender Nahuel Molina was also implicated after appearing to throw a punch at Spain captain Rodri before the Manchester City midfielder tackled him. Veteran defender Nicolas Otamendi was then seen engaging Rodri in a heated verbal exchange as tensions rose.Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni and several players eventually intervened to separate those involved and restore order.The controversy did not end there. Argentina’s players also drew criticism after they stood in front of their own supporters with their backs turned as Spain collected the World Cup trophy, an act many interpreted as disrespect towards the newly crowned champions.With FIFA’s investigation now underway, Paredes’ decision to focus solely on Argentina’s pride-filled campaign – without addressing the violence that overshadowed the final – has only intensified scrutiny of the midfielder’s conduct as world football awaits the government’s verdict.