FIFA has initiated disciplinary proceedings against the Argentinian Football Association over incidents including a Falkland Islands banner displayed by players after their World Cup semi-final victory over England in Atlanta. The banner read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (the Malvinas are Argentinian), referencing the British overseas territory in the south Atlantic.
Political reactions and FIFA’s code
The display prompted a response from the UK government, with a spokesperson for then Prime Minister Keir Starmer stating: “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are.” Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House FIFA taskforce, defended the players, asserting US belief in free speech. FIFA’s disciplinary code prohibits “using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature.” The Argentinian team had previously been fined £20,000 in 2014 for a similar banner.
Additional charges and final chaos
FIFA’s charges also include discriminatory chants, late kick-offs, security breaches, and spectator misconduct across multiple matches. Following Argentina’s 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the final, brawls broke out. Leandro Paredes faces three assault charges for wrestling Spain’s Eric García to the ground. Nahuel Molina faces two assault charges and one for unsporting behaviour. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala is charged with assault, and substitute Thiago Almada with unsporting behaviour. Spain’s Gavi faces a similar charge.
