Falklands poster row: FIFA to probe Messi's Argentina over 'Malvinas' banner
FIFA has launched a disciplinary investigation into Argentina's national football team for displaying a banner claiming sovereignty over the Falkland Islands during a World Cup match. The display violates FIFA's strict regulations against political slogans in official competitions.
Why it matters
The incident reignites long-standing diplomatic tensions between Argentina and the UK over the Falkland Islands, while testing FIFA's enforcement of political neutrality in sports.
FIFA has opened a disciplinary review after Argentina players displayed a banner carrying the message "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" ("The Falklands are Argentine") during celebrations following their 2-1 victory over England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final in Atlanta.Players including Lisandro Martínez, Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero were seen holding the banner during the celebrations. FIFA's Stadium Code of Conduct and Disciplinary Code prohibit the display of political, ideological or offensive banners, flags and slogans during official competitions.A FIFA spokesperson confirmed that the matter has been referred to the organisation's independent Disciplinary Committee, which is reviewing the official match reports before deciding whether any disciplinary action is required under the FIFA Disciplinary Code."As is standard procedure, FIFA's independent Disciplinary Committee is currently assessing the match reports and considering the relevant circumstances before deciding on any potential further steps in accordance with the FIFA Disciplinary Code," In a statement,…
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in