FIFA investigating Salt Bae’s World Cup trophy fiasco

Stevian Francis

3 years ago

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image via @nusr_et

FIFA is said to have launched an investigation into what it described as “undue access” to the field and World Cup trophy by celebrity chef Salt Bae following last Sunday’s World Cup final in Qatar.

Salt Bae, whose real name is Nusret Gokce, was pictured holding and kissing the World Cup trophy while celebrating with Argentina players after their win over France.

The now-viral images of his celebrations with the Cup have since created a minor uproar among some online users, which subsequently caught the attention of FIFA.

It’s understood that under current FIFA rules; only a “very select” group of persons are allowed access to the prestigious trophy including tournament winners, Fifa officials, and heads of state.

BBC reports that a FIFA spokesperson issued a statement noting its current evaluation on the matter: “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.”

Salt Bae owns a chain of luxury steakhouses and rose to fame in 2017 after his unconventional technique of preparing and seasoning meat went ultra-viral as a meme which has become a massive marketing hallmark of pulling celebrities to his restaurants.

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