Despite provoking the fight: FIFA removes the expulsion of Leandro Paredes from the records of the World Cup final

The International Football Federation (FIFA) has removed the red card issued to Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes during the World Cup final from its official records. The decision comes despite the player’s involvement in a post-match altercation with Spanish players, which initially led to disciplinary proceedings. The move was confirmed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who stated that no immediate sanctions will be imposed against Paredes. The incident occurred after Spain defeated Argentina 1–0 to win their second World Cup title. According to reports, the conflict began when Paredes was shown a red card by Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic for pushing and grabbing the neck of Spain’s Gavi. However, this sanction did not appear in the official match report. The BBC revealed that FIFA decided not to take any disciplinary action against Paredes, and the red card was subsequently deleted from the organization’s website. This means Paredes will have to wait until the completion of the disciplinary process before knowing whether further action will be taken. The investigation into the incident includes a review of video footage and other evidence. While the initial red card was removed, FIFA continues to examine the actions of several members of Argentina’s delegation. Among the incidents under scrutiny is a punch delivered by Nahuel Molina to Spain’s Rodri during the post-game confrontation. Additionally, there is a video showing Roberto Ayala, part of Argentina’s coaching staff led by Lionel Scaloni, engaging in a dispute with Spain’s Dani Olmo. Spanish forward Dani Olmo addressed the situation following the final. He explained his choice to refrain from retaliating against the aggression, emphasizing his responsibility as a role model for fans and young supporters. “If someone from their technical team touches me, my instinct is to fight back. I am human and in the heat of the moment one defends oneself,” Olmo said. “But I chose not to respond. I didn’t want to set a bad example for children and fans watching from home. We have a duty as role models.” The fallout from the final has extended beyond the pitch. In Argentina, some media outlets have suggested that the outcome could lead to broader investigations, including potential scrutiny of Lionel Messi, whose performance was criticized by certain segments of the public. Meanwhile, coach Lionel Scaloni has responded to conspiracy theories circulating in the country, insisting that the loss should not be attributed to any single factor or individual. As the disciplinary process unfolds, FIFA will rely on additional evidence before making a final determination. The organization has emphasized that its procedures go beyond the initial match report and include a thorough analysis of all relevant footage and testimonies. The case highlights the complexities of enforcing discipline in high-stakes international football, particularly when emotions run high and tensions escalate beyond the game itself. For now, the focus remains on the ongoing review and the potential consequences for those involved.