FIFA has banned Paraguayan commentator Jorge 'Chipi' Vera for the remainder of the 2026 World Cup after he launched a profanity-laced on-air attack during Paraguay's 1-0 victory over Turkey. The incident occurred on June 23, 2026, following a controversial red card issued to Paraguay's Miguel Almiron.
Red card sparks fury
Almiron became the first player at the World Cup to be sent off for speaking while covering his mouth, a new FIFA rule that prohibits players from covering their mouths during confrontational situations to combat discriminatory behavior. The red card, shown by Salvadoran referee Ivan Barton, ignited anger from Vera, who was commentating for Paraguayan network ABC.
During the broadcast, Vera branded Barton a thief and directed vitriol toward FIFA president Gianni Infantino, saying: 'Thief, thief, Barton. They killed football. FIFA, you killed football. Infantino, you’re responsible for this.' He also insulted CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez, using profanity and calling him a thief.
FIFA revokes accreditation
FIFA responded by revoking Vera's accreditation, preventing him from commentating on any further World Cup matches. The sanction also bars him from participating in ABC's coverage inside or outside stadiums.
Following the ban, Vera issued a public apology, acknowledging his 'offensive and unacceptable language.' He stated: 'I’m not here to make excuses. Questioning a rule or disagreeing with a referee’s decision never justifies losing control the way I did. What I said was wrong, and I have to own up to it.'
Vera's apology
In his statement, Vera expressed regret to his audience, colleagues, sponsors, and family. He said he had sent a letter to FIFA apologizing and hoped to explain his actions personally. 'I accept this situation with humility, I will learn from it, and when possible and appropriate, I will continue working to honor the trust of those who have supported me,' he added.
The new FIFA rule on covering mouths during confrontational situations was introduced to address discriminatory behavior. The International Football Association Board stated: 'Any player covering their mouth in a confrontational situation with an opponent may be sanctioned with a red card.'
