FIFA probes 'Malvinas are Argentine' flag display by players after World Cup win

FIFA is investigating the display of a flag asserting Argentine sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, known as Malvinas in Argentina, following the national team's victory over England in the 2026 World Cup semifinals. The incident occurred shortly after the match at the Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta when a group of supporters, having bypassed security, threw an improvised banner onto the field.

The banner, crudely made from a hotel sheet with black paint, bore the message "Las Malvinas son argentinas." Security agents had reportedly confiscated similar items at checkpoints, but some fans managed to smuggle the flag into the stadium. When unable to display it in the stands, they threw it onto the pitch. Players Giovani Lo Celso, Cuti Romero, and Lisandro Martínez picked up the flag and posed with it for photographs.

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Always will be Argentine. We are aware that it is a sad part of our history and it hurts. We played for all our people and we did it in the best way.

This action is now under review by FIFA's Disciplinary Committee, citing Article 13 of its Disciplinary Code, which prohibits using sporting events for political demonstrations. FIFA had previously classified the issue as a sensitive political symbol, increasing security measures to prevent provocations. However, the players chose to make the flag public.

Following the match, player Leandro Paredes affirmed the team's stance, stating, "They will always be Argentine. We are aware that it is a sad part of our history and it hurts. We played for all our people and we did it in the best way." Lautaro Martínez echoed this sentiment, noting that while they focused on the game, "it was not just another match" for the squad. The International Football Association Board's regulations prohibit political slogans on equipment or during celebrations. FIFA can impose sanctions ranging from fines to more severe measures for serious misconduct. The AFA, along with several players, must submit their defense to the commission to determine any infractions before final penalties are announced.

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it was not just another match