FIFA remove Argentina as World Cup suspension statement released by Spain star

FIFA remove Argentina as World Cup suspension statement released by Spain star describes a dispute following the 2026 World Cup final involving Spain and Argentina. FIFA opened a formal disciplinary inquiry after Enzo Fernandez was sent off with a red card and Argentina failed to register a shot on target against Spain before tensions erupted after the final whistle. The governing body has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate potential punishment for players and the Argentine Football Association. Spain midfielder Gavi publicly urged FIFA not to suspend any Argentina players, saying the match already included friction and that post-game clashes should not automatically lead to bans. FIFA is also probing Argentina for a political message displayed after their semifinal win over England: a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas.” Separately, Lionel Messi, 39, did not return with the squad; he flew to Rosario for a three-week rest before MLS action.