Ex-refs chief stunned by FIFA's Leandro Paredes decision after '10-match ban' claim

Gianni Infantino and FIFA should be ashamed of their reactions to emerging controversy from the 2026 World Cup.

That is according to former PGMOL chief and ex-FIFA referee, Keith Hackett, who exclusively told Football Insider that FIFA's dealing with the World Cup final is a "further blemish" on the tournament.

On Sunday, 19 July, Spain finally overcame Argentina in extra time to lift the World Cup trophy, but the celebrations could only begin after some ugly scenes.

Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a second bookable offence, but it was Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes who stole the spotlight after the full-time.

The Argentine duo lashed out at several of their opponents, including Rodri, Gavi and Eric Garcia, and it was believed that Paredes had been sent off by Slavko Vincic.

Indeed, Hackett told Football Insider that Paredes should be slapped with a "ten-match ban" for his "disgraceful" behaviour.

It has now been revealed, however, that the midfielder's red card has been removed from the record, with FIFA confirming that he's faced no disciplinary action.

Keith Hackett lashes out at FIFA's disciplinary panel

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hackett has ripped apart the latest twist after the World Cup final, and has some choice words for FIFA.

"The referee has the authority to take disciplinary action from entering the field of play for the pre-match inspection until leaving the field of play after the match ends," he said.

"Players and the match officials were on the field of play when the incident by Paredes took place. Reports stated clearly that a red card had been shown.

"When a red card or any sanction is issued by the referee, it must be reported in the usual manner so that the authorities can deal with and produce an outcome.

"To be informed that FIFA have withdrawn the card and no further action will be taken is a further blemish on this World Cup, and in particular, the FIFA disciplinary committee.

FIFA disciplinary panel urged to step away from new investigation

While speaking to Football Insider, Hackett also ripped into FIFA's disciplinary panel, wanting a proper investigation into the World Cup final scenes.

"FIFA have no informed the world that they will carry out an investigation into Argentina around the unacceptable scenes at the end of the final," he said.

"I would suggest that FIFA think very seriously about who conducts this investigation. It should be chaired by a judge and two people who hold high office in sports arbitration.

"It should not be by the FIFA disciplinary panel, who, in my opinion, have failed to serve the game in an appropriate manner at this World Cup."