FIFA is taking "appropriate internal action" to address breaches of World Cup protocol by a celebrity chef who held the gold trophy on the field, the world football governing body said on Thursday. The chef, known as Salt Bae, posed for pictures with Argentina players on Sunday in Qatar following their thrilling victory over France. The celebrity chef is regularly seen with FIFA President Gianni Infantino.  FIFA describes the trophy as "a priceless icon" that "can only be touched and held by a very select group of people, which includes former winners of the FIFA World Cup and heads of state." “Following a review, FIFA has been establishing how individuals gained undue access to the pitch after the closing ceremony at Lusail stadium on Dec. 18. The appropriate internal action will be taken,” the world football governing body said.

The chef, who owns a restaurant in Doha, was a frequent visitor of FIFA during the World Cup and received VIP access. He shared images and videos on social media. The celebrity chef was seen gripping Lionel Messi's arm on the field after Argentina's exciting 3-3 draw and subsequent win in the penalty shootout during the Qatar 2022 FIFA World Cup final.  The soccer great seemed irritated in the film clip although he later posed for a photo that Salt Bae posted on Instagram.