Spain coach Luis de la Fuente calls Argentina’s World Cup final behaviour ‘intolerable’

By Rohan Gupta — 24 July 2026 — 3 min read

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has described the conduct of Argentina players following the World Cup final as “intolerable and unacceptable.” His comments come as FIFA has initiated a disciplinary investigation into the incidents that occurred after Spain‘s victory.

De la Fuente expressed his disappointment during an interview with Spanish public broadcaster TVE, where he also commended his own players for maintaining their composure amidst the provocations. He highlighted that he did not fully grasp the extent of the incidents at the moment they happened, as he was celebrating with his team.

Post-Match Confrontations

The incidents in question involved several Argentina players clashing with members of the Spain squad at New York New Jersey Stadium. Nahuel Molina reportedly attacked Rodri, while Leandro Paredes confronted both Eric García and Gavi. Paredes also physically tangled with Eric Garcia and Gavi.

Rodri, Spain‘s captain, was reportedly hit in the stomach as he passed Nahuel Molina. Additionally, Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala later apologised for a confrontation with Dani Olmo, clarifying it was a shove rather than a punch.

De la Fuente praised his team’s response, stating, “I want to highlight our behaviour in the face of that kind of aggression and provocation. Our players always kept their composure and behaved like true professionals.”

The Spain squad formed a guard of honour for the Argentina players as they proceeded to receive their medals from US President Donald Trump. However, minutes later, most of the Argentina squad turned their backs during the ceremonial moment when Rodri lifted the trophy.

FIFA Investigation Underway

FIFA has launched a disciplinary investigation into the events. The world football governing body asked one of its disciplinary prosecutors on Monday to report on the on-field confrontations that followed Spain’s 1-0 extra-time win. The scenes were filmed and widely circulated on social media platforms.

Despite the widespread sharing of the footage, no sanctions have yet been imposed on the Argentina players. FIFA’s disciplinary rules permit a special prosecutor to “request the opening of disciplinary proceedings and propose that disciplinary measures be imposed on member associations, clubs and individuals.”

FIFA has not provided specific details regarding the scope of its investigator’s remit, nor has it indicated whether witness statements will be sought from Spain players and staff. A timetable for any potential cases has not been disclosed, and it remains unclear when any bans for Argentina players, if imposed, would take effect, given the team has no competitive matches scheduled in the coming months.

De la Fuente Reflects on Tournament Success

Beyond the post-match controversy, De la Fuente also reflected on Spain‘s journey to securing the trophy. He acknowledged the significant challenges faced by the team, including extensive travel and limited rest, stating, “It has been 24,000 kilometres, humidity, little rest… All of that process, beyond the opponents, is what you have to overcome.”

He lauded the performance of Rodri, the tournament’s Golden Ball winner, remarking that to question the Manchester City midfielder’s ability is “an insult to footballing intelligence.” De la Fuente also noted that the tournament contributed to the maturity of young star Lamine Yamal, particularly in his commitment to the team.

Looking ahead, De la Fuente expressed that leading Spain at the 2030 World Cup would be a great source of pride, though his immediate focus is on Spain‘s upcoming fixtures in September and October. He concluded by thanking supporters for their backing, stating, “I want to thank the whole country for being so invested in us. Even from afar we have felt your support. It is a huge source of pride to be Spanish. Thank you, Spain.”

Source: theguardian.com

Rohan Gupta

Sports Reporter