Jeremy Clarkson has taken a swipe at Argentina ahead of the World Cup semi-final against England, reminding fans of the infamous Top Gear controversy from 2014. The TV presenter, who recently announced he is in remission after being diagnosed with an aggressive form of prostate cancer in 2025, posted on social media on Sunday: "It was hard to dislike our opponents last night. On Wednesday, however..."
Social Media Reaction
The post quickly went viral, garnering 128,000 likes and 1,500 comments. Fans immediately caught the reference to the 2014 incident when Clarkson, along with Richard Hammond and James May, used a car in Argentina with a number plate reading "H982 FKL," which appeared to reference the Falklands War. The controversy forced the Top Gear crew to be escorted out of the country by police and into Chile.
One fan commented: "The peaceful truce is officially over. Things are about to get incredibly toxic." Another added: "What bad blood could there be between you and Argentina, either nationally or personally?" A third wrote: "Need a football shirt with this on…. H982 FKL."
World Cup Context
The match, set for Wednesday in Atlanta, will see Lionel Messi face England for the first time in his career. England, managed by Thomas Tuchel, aim to end 60 years of hurt as they take on the defending world champions.
However, fans are reminded that World Cup stadium codes of conduct prohibit any materials of a "political, offensive and/or discriminatory nature," including apparel, banners, flags, or flyers with discriminatory wording or symbols. This means wearing a shirt with "H982 FKL" would be deemed offensive, and items like MAGA caps or patriotic slogans could also lead to denied entry.
