FIFA has clarified that Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was not officially sent off following the heated altercation that erupted after the FIFA World Cup final against Spain, despite initial reports suggesting he had received a red card.

The confusion began after the final whistle, when an entry in FIFA’s commentator information system indicated that referee Slavko Vincic had dismissed Paredes. That information was later removed, with FIFA confirming that no red card had been issued.

Heated Scenes After Spain’s Victory

Tempers flared moments after Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina through Ferran Torres’ decisive goal.

Television footage showed Paredes confronting Spain defender Eric Garcia during the celebrations. The exchange quickly escalated, with the Argentine midfielder appearing to strike Garcia, triggering a larger confrontation between players from both sides.

Spain midfielder Gavi stepped in to separate the pair, while Argentina’s Thiago Almada attempted to pull players away from the incident. During the scuffle, Paredes appeared to make contact with Gavi as emotions boiled over.

The scenes briefly led to reports that the Argentina midfielder had been dismissed.

FIFA Confirms No Red Card Was Issued

FIFA later clarified that the apparent dismissal resulted from an error in its commentator information system.

The governing body confirmed that referee Slavko Vincic did not issue a red card to Paredes during or after the altercation, despite the temporary listing suggesting otherwise.

Disciplinary Investigation Still Underway

Although no on-field red card was recorded, the incident is far from closed.

FIFA has established a disciplinary panel and appointed an independent disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the post-match clashes involving players and coaching staff from both teams.

Those found responsible could face suspensions or other disciplinary measures. Argentina’s football federation could also face financial sanctions depending on the outcome of the investigation.

Under FIFA’s disciplinary regulations, sanctions may be imposed for unsporting conduct, breaches of fair play or actions that damage the reputation of the sport.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Was Leandro Paredes shown a red card in the World Cup final?

No. FIFA confirmed that Leandro Paredes was not officially shown a red card. An initial entry indicating a dismissal was later removed after being identified as an error.

Why was there confusion about Paredes’ red card?

A temporary update in FIFA’s commentator information system incorrectly listed Paredes as having been sent off. FIFA later clarified that no disciplinary action had been taken on the field.

What happened after the World Cup final?

Following Spain’s 1-0 victory, several Argentina and Spain players became involved in a heated confrontation, with Leandro Paredes, Eric Garcia and Gavi among those caught in the incident.

Is FIFA investigating the World Cup final brawl?

Yes. FIFA has appointed a disciplinary panel and an independent prosecutor to review the post-match altercation and determine whether further action is required.

Could Leandro Paredes still face punishment?

Yes. Even without an on-field red card, Paredes and others involved could face suspensions or disciplinary sanctions if FIFA’s investigation finds they violated its disciplinary regulations.