FIFA Opens Disciplinary Case Against Argentina Over Falklands Banner

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Zurich: FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) after Argentina players displayed a banner supporting the country's claim to the Falkland Islands following their World Cup semi-final victory over England.

The banner, reading ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’ (The Malvinas are Argentinian) was displayed by several Argentina players after their 2-1 win over England in Atlanta, prompting FIFA to investigate a possible breach of its rules banning political demonstrations at sporting events.

The Falkland Islands, known as the Malvinas in Argentina, have been administered by Britain since 1833. The territorial dispute led to the 1982 Falklands War, in which more than 900 people were killed.

FIFA's disciplinary code prohibits using football matches for non-sporting or political demonstrations. The governing body has also charged the AFA over discriminatory chants and gestures, delayed kick-offs, breaches of match and security protocols, inappropriate messages displayed by players and fans, and spectators throwing objects during several World Cup matches.

The investigation comes days after FIFA launched a separate disciplinary probe into post-match clashes following Argentina's 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.

Midfielder Leandro Paredes is under investigation over alleged assault during the on-field altercations, while defender Nahuel Molina also faces disciplinary scrutiny over his conduct.

Pic Credit: AFP