During the celebrations of the title of world champion of Argentina, a scene challenged, and even shocked, many football fans. On the field, while the Albiceleste players savored their coronation, a man invited himself among them: Salt Bae, this Turkish chef star of social networks. Nusret Gokçe, his real name, even took in his hands and kissed the World Cup trophy, which is reserved for a very limited number of people. A few days later, Fifa reacted to this situation.
New York Times journalist Tariq Panja shared the response he got from the international body. “Following a review of the situation, Fifa has established how individuals gained improper access to the pitch after the closing ceremony at Lusail Stadium on December 18. Appropriate internal measures will be taken. Sanctions could therefore fall, without really knowing against whom and in what order.
Beyond the episode of the trophy, it is the behavior of the cook towards the Argentines who shocked. Salt Bae insisted with many players to take pictures, including trying by all means to win alongside Lionel Messi to take a shot.
According to some media, Salt Bae, who is close to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, could be banned from the stadium during the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
