FIFA is investigating how celebrity chef Nusret “Salt Bae” Gokce got “undue access” after he was photographed all over Argentina’s team celebration.
In pictures posted to his Instagram, the chef-turned-influencer could be seen posing with the likes of Messi, Angel Di Maria, Cristian Romero, and Lisandro Martinez following the match.
Videos circulating on social media also showed Gokce gripping Lionel Messi’s arm in an attempt to draw the Argentina captain’s attention.
He also held the World Cup trophy on more than one occasion. According to FIFA’s website, the trophy can only be touched by a “very select group of people,” including former winners and heads of state.
FIFA told Sky Sports News that Salt Bae’s field access was “unauthorized.”
A FIFA spokesperson offered this statement after news of the investigation broke: “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.”
