The story so far
Spain World Cup Final Brawl
Tracked across 6 sources · Updated 3h ago
After Spain's 2026 World Cup win over Argentina, a post-match brawl erupted involving Argentina's Leandro Paredes, who was sent off. FIFA investigated, and tensions escalated with family defenses, player retraction threats, and rejected apologies. Lionel Messi later appeared publicly for the first time since the defeat.
How it unfolded
2d ago
Messi makes first public appearance since final loss
4d ago
Paredes hints at retirement from Argentina
4d ago
Paredes admits Spain deserved win; Spain coach attacks
6d ago
Ibrahimovic criticizes Paredes; Gavi supports no ban
21 Jul 2026
Paredes' mother defends brawl; sister taunts England
20 Jul 2026
FIFA to investigate Argentina's violent conduct
19 Jul 2026
Paredes brawls with Spain players after final
19 Jul 2026
Spain wins World Cup; Royal Family sends message
What happened earlier
Latest updates
Latest
Full story →Lionel Messi Makes 1st Public Appearance Since FIFA World Cup Final, But Undercover

Lionel Messi made his first public appearance since the 2026 World Cup final.
He attended a Primera C match near Rosario, Argentina.
The match involved his family's club, Leones FC.
His appearance was undercover, not widely publicized.
Earlier · 19 Jul 2026
Full story →Spanish Royal Family Celebrates World Cup Triumph With Heartfelt Message

Earlier · 20 Jul 2026
Full story →FIFA to probe Argentina post-final violence, assistant coach targeted Dani Olmo

FIFA is set to investigate violent conduct by Argentina after the 2026 World Cup final.
An Argentina assistant coach allegedly tried to punch Spain's Dani Olmo.
Eric Garcia and Leandro Paredes clashed after the final whistle, leading to ugly scenes.
Earlier · 5d ago
Full story →Ibrahimovic criticizes Paredes, questions Spain's response
Zlatan Ibrahimovic criticised Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes for his actions in post-match confrontations after the FIFA World Cup final.
Ibrahimovic said he would have headbutted Paredes if he had been on the pitch.
Ibrahimovic questioned why Spain's players did not respond to Paredes grabbing Gavi by the throat.
FIFA is investigating Paredes' conduct following the match.
Paredes expressed pride in representing Argentina despite the loss.
Earlier · 5d ago
Full story →Gavi: Paredes should avoid ban after brawl
Spain midfielder Gavi defended Argentina's Leandro Paredes, saying Paredes should not be suspended for his role in a post-match brawl after the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
The brawl occurred after Spain's 1-0 victory, with Paredes pushing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat and later shoving Gavi to the ground.
FIFA has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the incident, which could lead to bans or fines for players, coaches, or the Argentine Football Association.
Gavi stated that the most logical outcome would have been a red card during the match and that the aggression is part of football's physical side.