FIFA is taking “appropriate internal action” to address breaches of World Cup protocol by a celebrity chef who held the trophy on the field after Sunday’s final in Qatar.
Restaurateur Nusret Gokce, who is known as Salt Bae and is regularly seen with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, mingled with Argentina players and posed for photos after their victory over France in an epic decider.
Turkish chef Salt Bae after Sunday’s final in Qatar.Credit:Getty
FIFA described the trophy as “a priceless icon” which “can only be touched and held by a very select group of people, which includes former winners of the FIFA World Cup and heads of state”.
“Following a review, FIFA has been establishing how individuals gained undue access to the pitch after the closing ceremony at Lusail stadium on December 18,” the governing body said in a statement on Thursday. “The appropriate internal action will be taken.”
The chef, who has a restaurant in Doha, was a regular guest of FIFA with VIP access during the World Cup. He posted photos and video clips on social media.
After Argentina’s win in a penalty shootout following a thrilling 3-3 draw, he was filmed grabbing the arm of captain Lionel Messi on the field to get his attention. The football legend seemed irritated in the film clip but later posed for a photo that Salt Bae posted on Instagram.
AP
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