FIFA is investigating how celebrity chef Salt Bae gained ‘unauthorized access’ to the pitch after the World Cup final, where he surprised Argentina, including an amused and bewildered Lionel Messi. He enthusiastically took pictures with the players.
Salt Bae, whose real name is Nusret Gokche, was pictured holding the trophy and kissing after Argentina beat France in the final in Qatar on Sunday.
A Turkish businessman was widely criticized for twice grabbing Messi’s arm while he was trying to avoid unnecessary attention.
He was also photographed with Angel di Maria and Lisandro Martinez and was even seen sinking his teeth into another player’s medal.
FIFA rules stipulate that World Cup trophies may only be held by FIFA officials and heads of state similar to the winner of the tournament.
A spokesman told the BBC, “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 appropriate internal action will be taken.”
Salt Bay, 39, owns chains of fine dining restaurants around the world, including Beverly Hills, Los Angeles and chic Knightsbridge, London.
His meat preparation and seasoning techniques have become internet memes.
At the start of the World Cup, he posted a video of himself sitting next to FIFA president Gianni Infantino going into the match.
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