FIFA is investigating the circumstances which led to ‘Salt Bae’ gatecrashing Argentina’s World Cup celebrations in Qatar on Sunday.
The celebrity restaurant owner, whose real name is Nusret Gokce, was seen on the pitch after the final trying to take selfies with Argentina players, including Lionel Messi, and holding the World Cup.
FIFA has told Sky Sports News his access to the pitch was unauthorised and its rules state that only the World Cup winners and heads of state are allowed to touch the trophy during the closing ceremony.
A spokesperson for FIFA said: “Following a review, FIFA has been establishing how individuals gained undue access to the pitch after the closing ceremony at Lusail stadium on 18 December. The appropriate internal action will be taken.”
It is understood that Salt Bae has no involvement with FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who has previously been pictured visiting one of his restaurants. It is also believed there is no commercial relationship between FIFA and Salt Bae.
Salt Bae is, though, one of the 303 people that Infantino follows on his Instagram.
The Turkish celebrity chef has become known by the pseudonym Salt Bae since rising to fame on social media for his unique style of seasoning steaks. (Skysports)
