FIFA is looking into how celebrity chef Salt Bae got “undue access” to Argentina’s post-World Cup celebrations on the field.
Following the finals, Nusret Gokce, a Turkish chef and social media personality known as Salt Bae, shared several pictures of himself holding the World Cup trophy.
The chef was also seen attempting to pose for a photo with Lionel Messi and several Argentina teammates.
His presence in the immediate aftermath of the trophy presentation has drawn significant criticism and is now the focus of a FIFA investigation.
According to a widely circulated statement from FIFA, “Following a review, FIFA has been establishing how individuals gained undue access to the pitch following the closing ceremony at Lusail stadium on Dec. 18.”
“The appropriate internal action will be taken.”
Earlier this month, Bae posted an image on Instagram of himself at a World Cup match alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Brazil greats Ronaldo, Cafu, and Roberto Carlos.