Lorraine Kelly has condemned Argentina's World Cup-winning team for displaying a banner claiming the Falkland Islands as Argentine territory, branding the act 'shameful' and an insult to British armed forces. The banner, which read 'Las Malvinas son Argentinas' (The Falklands are Argentine), was unveiled by players after their 2-1 victory over England in Atlanta on Wednesday night.
Kelly's Instagram Outburst
Writing on Instagram, Kelly said: 'SHAMEFUL!! FIFA should throw the book at them. What an insult to the Falkland Islanders and to all our brave British armed forces who fought in the Falklands War. I hope Spain gives them a right humping in the final.' The presenter's comments have sparked widespread debate online.
Political Tensions Flare
The banner refers to the long-standing sovereignty dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands, which lie 300 miles from mainland Argentina and 8,000 miles from Britain. The conflict escalated into a brief but bloody war in 1982, resulting in the deaths of 255 British and 649 Argentine personnel.
Argentina's Vice-President Victoria Villarruel fuelled tensions by tweeting after the match that 'it wasn't just another match', alongside a video of what appeared to be Argentine soldiers. Before the game, she had described England as 'invaders' and 'usurping pirates'.
FIFA Disciplinary Action Possible
The players could face disciplinary action from FIFA for violating rules that prohibit political messaging on the pitch. Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni had previously stated he did not want the fixture to become about the territorial conflict.
Scenes Outside the Stadium
Fights broke out outside the Mercedes-Benz Stadium after the match, with police taking at least three people away. The Atlanta Police Department had deployed extra resources around the city, lining streets outside bars near the stadium. England fans were left devastated as their team's hopes of ending 60 years of World Cup hurt were dashed by the defending champions.
