Downing Street has backed calls for Fifa to investigate whether Argentina players breached rules by displaying a banner supporting their country’s claim to the Falkland Islands after their World Cup semi-final victory over England.
A No 10 spokesperson said: “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are.” Business Secretary Peter Kyle earlier described the behaviour as an “egregious violation” of tournament regulations. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey called for the players involved to be suspended for Sunday’s final against Spain.
Article 34.3 of the World Cup rules prohibits the display of political messages before, during or after matches. Argentina were fined by Fifa for a similar banner after a friendly against Slovenia in 2014.
The incident came after England’s 2-1 defeat in Atlanta, which saw manager Thomas Tuchel face criticism over his tactics. Questions remain over the team’s direction and squad selection ahead of the next European Championship.
