The International Football Federation (FIFA) has opened an investigation following the incident involving renowned Turkish chef Nusret Gökçe, known as "Salt Bae," entering the Lusail Stadium in Qatar and celebrating with the Argentina national team after their World Cup victory on Sunday. Nusret was seen on the pitch holding and kissing the golden trophy while taking photos with Argentine players after their win over France in a penalty shootout, in violation of the tournament's protocols.
FIFA stated: "After investigations, FIFA has discovered how individuals gained unauthorized access to the pitch after the closing ceremony at Lusail Stadium on December 18, and appropriate internal action will be taken." FIFA referred to the trophy as "a priceless symbol that can only be touched and held by a carefully selected group of individuals, including past World Cup winners and heads of state."
The chef, who owns a restaurant in major cities around the world, was a regular guest of honor at World Cup matches with VIPs throughout the tournament and shared pictures and videos on social media. After Argentina's victory in the final, pictures emerged of Nusret holding onto the arm of captain Lionel Messi on the pitch to attract his attention. The legendary player appeared upset in the video, despite pausing for a photo, which Nusret later shared on Instagram.
