FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings over several incidents involving Argentina players and staff during the World Cup, including the display of a Falklands-related banner and alleged misconduct during the final.
According to documents released by FIFA, several Argentina players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” after their 2-1 semifinal victory over England. The Falkland Islands, known as the Malvinas in Argentina, are under British control, but Argentina continues to claim sovereignty over the islands.
FIFA's Disciplinary Code prohibits the use of sporting events to promote political or non-sporting messages. The banner incident is therefore included in the disciplinary investigation.
The dispute over the Falkland Islands dates back decades. Britain has controlled the islands since 1833. In 1982, Argentina and the United Kingdom fought a 74-day war over the territory, in which more than 900 people were killed.
The banner also drew political reactions. A spokesperson for then-British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the World Cup might not belong to Britain, but the Falkland Islands did. Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House FIFA task force, defended the Argentina players, saying the United States supports freedom of speech.
FIFA has previously taken action over similar incidents. In 2014, the Argentina Football Association was fined £20,000 after a similar large banner was displayed before a friendly against Slovenia.
The current investigation goes beyond the banner. FIFA's disciplinary documents include allegations against the Argentina Football Association involving discriminatory chants and gestures, a delayed kickoff, breaches of match and security protocols, inappropriate messages displayed by players and supporters, and objects thrown by spectators during several matches.
FIFA is also investigating a confrontation that followed Argentina's 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final. Tensions reportedly escalated between players from both teams as Spain began celebrating the title at MetLife Stadium in New York and New Jersey.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three charges of assault under Article 14.1(i) of FIFA's Disciplinary Code. Defender Nahuel Molina faces two assault charges, including one alleged completed assault and one attempted assault, as well as a separate charge of unsporting behavior.
Assistant coach Roberto Ayala faces one assault charge. Thiago Almada, who was on the substitutes' bench during the final, faces a charge of unsporting behavior. Spain midfielder Gavi has also been charged with unsporting behavior.
FIFA said the accused individuals and relevant parties have been given an opportunity to respond to the allegations. The disciplinary committee will review their submissions before issuing its final decisions.
