What punishment could Brazil face for crowd trouble in Argentina FIFA World Cup qualifier?

The incidents which took place before Brazil’s FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier against Argentina at Maracanã have once again stirred debate about how to best guarantee the safety of matchgoers. On the field, the fixture in Rio de Janeiro went the way of Lionel Messi and Co, who inflicted the hosts’ first ever home qualification defeat in 64 matches. But the match was overshadowed by what happened in the stands, with Brazilian police charging at Argentine supporters with batons after scuffles between rival fans.

The disturbances led to kick-off being delayed as Argentina captain Messi and his teammates, who had already taken to the field, went over in an attempt to calm things down. The Inter Miami star later revealed players were worried family members had been caught up in the trouble and that he didn’t want the game to go ahead.

Brazilian Federation “followed established security plan”

In the aftermath of the match, the Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF) insisted the “organisation and planning of the match was carried out carefully and strategically by the CBF, together and in constant dialogue with all competent public bodies, in particular the Military Police of the State of Rio de Janeiro.”

However, some parts of the stadium had fans of both teams sitting next to each other, which led to several flashpoints. Increased security and strictly following the established plan and guidance of state police and other authorities, as the CBF claims they did, proved to be insufficient.

How could Brazil be sanctioned?

As a result of the disturbances, which left a number of Argentine supporters bloodied and battered, Brazil may be sanctioned. Brazilian media outlet Globo has reported FIFA could be about to open an investigation into the incidents which took place before the CONMEBOL qualifier got underway.

Although nothing has as yet been confirmed, FIFA have the power to fine the CBF, order Brazil to play home matches behind closed doors or at a neutral venue, and could even take points off them as they look to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Copa Libertadores carnage in Rio

Article 17 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code states “host clubs and associations are responsible for order and security both in and around the stadium before, during and after matches,” with Brazil already in the spotlight after high-profile altercations ahead of the Copa Libertadores final between Fluminense and Boca Juniors supporters in Rio only a few weeks ago.

Although there is still a long way to go in qualifying, Brazil have endured a torrid start to their campaign, losing their last three matches, their worst streak in recent history. As it stands, they are in the sixth and final automatic qualification spot for the next World Cup, with a points deduction likely to see them drop towards the bottom of the standings.

What did FIFA President Gianni Infantino say about the trouble?

FIFA President Gianni Infantino condemned the violence that had taken place at the Maracanã and emphasised the safety of everyone involved was paramount.

“Such events, as seen during the World Cup qualifier between Brazil and Argentina at the Maracanã stadium, have no place in our sport or society. Without exception, all players, fans, staff and managers need to be safe and protected to play and enjoy football and I urge the competent authorities to ensure this is respected at all levels.”