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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Mark Donlon

FIFA investigating Salt Bae's 'undue access' to pitch after World Cup final

FIFA is investigating the 'undue access' to the pitch gained by celebrity chef Salt Bae following the conclusion of the World Cup final.

The renowned chef, whose real name is Nusret Gokce, was seen out on the pitch holding and kissing the World Cup trophy in amongst a slew of victorious Argentina players.

FIFA's ruling on the trophy itself is that only a "very select" group of people - including tournament winners, Fifa officials and heads of state - can hold the it.

READ MORE: George Hamilton says 'sport has gone to hell' as he takes aim at FIFA following World Cup final

A statement issued by a FIFA spokseperson to the BBC read: ""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."

Videos circulating on social media following the final showed the chef approaching Argentina hero Lionel Messi as he looked to embrace the Argentine captain.

Messi initially appeared to sidestep Gokce in an effort to get away and continue celebrating with his team, but there followed pictures of the pair together with the chef shaking Messi's hand.

'Salt Bae' pictured with Argentina's World Cup hero Lionel Messi (Instagram/nusr_et)

The internet sensation also took Franco Armani's medal and held it in his mouth, while Angel Di Maria was among other members of the Argentina squad to be interrupted for a photo opportunity.

Earlier today, Irish rugby legend Brian O'Driscoll took a cheeky swipe at the celebrity chef for his part in the World Cup celebrations.

O'Driscoll said on Twitter: "Now the dust has settled on last weekend it’s time to reflect :

"EXCELLENT WORLD CUPS : Messi & MacAllister

"SOLID WORLD CUPS: Modric & Bellingham

"POOR WORLD CUP : Salt Bae"

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