FIFA Fines Argentina FA for Breach of World Cup Regulations
Brasilia, July 2014 — Just days after securing a dramatic World Cup final berth with a penalty shootout win over the Netherlands, Argentina has found itself on the receiving end of disciplinary action from FIFA.
The world football governing body has announced a fine of 300,000 Swiss francs (approximately £200,000) against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for a breach of World Cup media regulations.
According to a statement released by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, the sanction stems from Argentina’s failure to comply with mandatory pre-match media duties. Specifically, FIFA regulations require that both the head coach and at least one player attend official pre-match press conferences. In Argentina’s case, manager Alejandro Sabella appeared alone on multiple occasions.
FIFA was clear in outlining the importance of these obligations, stating: “The objective of these regulations is, among other things, to allow the media, and ultimately the supporters, to follow a team’s preparation, while guaranteeing each team the best possible environment for said preparation.”
While the issue has no bearing on Argentina’s participation in the tournament, the fine serves as a reminder of the strict media policies in place during the World Cup. FIFA views these press events as vital for transparency and accessibility during the competition.
Argentina, led by captain Lionel Messi, will face Germany in the World Cup final, hoping to claim their first title since 1986. However, the disciplinary setback casts a slight shadow over their preparations as they ready themselves for the tournament’s ultimate showdown.
