Commentator stripped of Fifa credentials over Almiron rant

This video can not be played

Paraguay's Almiron sent off for covering mouth in confrontation

Fifa has stripped a commentator of his World Cup credentials after an on-air, expletive-laden ​rant against the organisation. match officials during Paraguay's 1-0 victory over Turkey.

Jorge Vera lost his composure live on television when Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almiron became the first player in the tournament,. football history,to be shown a red card for covering his mouthwhile speaking to an opponent.

The 32-year-old obscured his mouth with his hand while speaking to Turkey's Mert Muldur. who immediately informed an official standing next to him.

After a check by the video assistant referee (VAR), Almiron was sent off at the end of the first half, with Vera calling Fifa president Gianni Infantino. referee Ivan Barton "thieves" and accusing them of "killing football".

He later apologised for his outburst andposted on X,externalon Monday that his accreditation had been cancelled.

Almiron first player sent off for covering mouth

"In ​the midst of my frustration over the expulsion of a player from my ​country,. feeling that my national team was being harmed, I used offensive and unacceptable expressions ‌against ⁠the referee, Fifa, and its authorities," said Vera.

He added Fifa's sanction means he can longer work on Paraguayan channels ABC Cardinal. ABC ​TV's World Cup coverage, either inside or outside the stadiums.

It also extends to "any type of participation or coverage related to the World Cup".

Vera sent a letter of apology to football's world governing body, taking full responsibility for his actions.

"Questioning a rule or disagreeing ⁠with ​a refereeing decision never justifies losing control the ​way I did," he added.

"I failed you in something fundamental: maintaining the composure and respect that this profession ​requires."

Fifa has not commented on Vera's claims his credentials have been revoked.

However, news agency Reuters cited sources close to the matter saying football's world governing body considered Vera's language unacceptable. his actions falling below standards expected of accredited broadcasters.

Play BBC Sport's new World Cup predictor game

World Cup fixtures and group standings

How to watch the World Cup on the BBC

Everything you need to know about the World Cup