FIFA has initiated disciplinary proceedings against Argentina following incidents during the 2026 World Cup involving a politically charged banner and post-match altercations. The actions under investigation include the display of a banner referencing the Falkland Islands after Argentina’s semifinal victory over England, as well as physical confrontations that occurred after their defeat to Spain in the final.
During celebrations in Atlanta, several Argentina players, including Manchester United’s Lisandro Martínez and Tottenham’s Cristian Romero, were seen holding a banner stating “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” — a claim over the Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory in the South Atlantic. The islands have been under British control since 1833 but are also claimed by Argentina, a longstanding dispute that led to a brief war in 1982 with significant casualties on both sides. FIFA’s disciplinary code prohibits the use of sport events to promote political messages, and the banner has sparked criticism in the United Kingdom. UK officials reiterated their position on the sovereignty of the islands, while some commentators emphasized free speech rights in defense of Argentina’s players.
In addition to the banner incident, FIFA’s charge sheet cites a range of breaches including discriminatory chants and gestures, late start times for matches, failure to observe match and security protocols, the display of inappropriate messages by players and fans, and the throwing of objects by spectators during multiple Argentina games.
Further scrutiny followed the World Cup final held at New York New Jersey Stadium, where a physical altercation broke out as Spain celebrated their 1-0 extra-time victory. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was recorded grabbing Spain’s Eric García by the throat and hitting substitute Gavi. Paredes faces three counts of assault under FIFA’s code. Defender Nahuel Molina is charged with two counts of assault—one completed, one attempted—and a charge of unsporting behavior. Argentina’s assistant coach Roberto Ayala is also charged with one count of assault, while winger Thiago Almada and Spain's Gavi have been charged with unsporting conduct. Molina faces additional proceedings for unsporting behavior.
The Argentina Football Association has been charged with multiple disciplinary violations, including team misconduct, discrimination and racist abuse, and issues relating to match ordering and security. FIFA has provided the federation and individuals involved with the opportunity to respond before the disciplinary committee issues a ruling.
The incidents have intensified debate about the intersection of politics and sport, as well as sportsmanship at major tournaments. Argentina’s displays and conduct during the event reflect deep-seated regional tensions, while FIFA faces challenges enforcing rules that aim to keep the focus on football amid broader geopolitical issues. The final decisions by FIFA’s disciplinary committee are expected to clarify potential sanctions for Argentina and those players involved.