Where is Salt Bae from and why was he on the pitch after Argentina won World Cup?

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Social media phenomenon Salt Bae was surprisingly seen on the pitch after Argentina won the World Cup on Sunday – celebrating, or at least trying to, with the likes of Lionel Messi. But where is he from, and why was on the pitch?

The Turkish chef, renowned for his theatrical way of seasoning meat, was spotted posing with the likes of Cristian Romero and Angel Di Maria. Videos also emerged online of him clawing at Lionel Messi, perhaps to take a photo.

His real name is Nusret Gökçe and he owns a number of high-class restaurants across the world. From his home country of Turkey, to the United Kingdom, and even in the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and of course, Qatar.

Born in 1983 in Turkish city Erzurum – he became a butcher. His family’s financial problems saw him start work as a butcher’s apprentice in Istanbul, aged just 12. Now, he is an internet phenomenon with almost 50 million followers.

Why was Salt Bae on the pitch after Argentina won World Cup?

Spanish newspaper AS report that he is apparently friends with controversial FIFA president Gianni Infantino. But as FIFA rules go, he was not supposed to handle the trophy – despite posting a video alongside Tottenham’s Romero.

Not only did he post a video pretending to season the biggest trophy in world football, but he also posed alongside Di Maria, Lisandro Martinez and a confused Messi. Argentina beat France on penalties after an enthralling 3-3 draw.

Perhaps confused, given that he had just won football’s biggest trophy – something he had craved throughout his glittering career. Only to then be celebrating with Salt Bae, who was seen chatting with Infantino days before the final.

What is Salt Bae’s net worth – and how many restaurants does he own?

The Mirror reported that as of 2021, Salt Bae is worth an astounding $60million. It is claimed he has 15 steakhouses, with a ‘golden’ steak in his newly-opened London spot worth a huge £100. Chips can set you back a further £30.

So, a bit bizarre and perhaps another example of Infantino becoming more of a leader at FIFA – instead of the head of an organization that claims it is “for the good of the game”. Allowing his mates, to celebrate on the pitch after a final.