FIFA opens wide-ranging disciplinary case into Argentina over World Cup conduct and Falklands banner

FIFA has launched formal disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and several of its players over a series of alleged offences at the World Cup, including the use of a politically charged Falklands banner after the semi-final win against England.

The investigation centres on multiple incidents during the tournament, with world football’s governing body accusing Argentina of breaching its disciplinary code by using a sporting event to promote political messages, as well as a range of alleged misconduct by players and supporters on and off the pitch.

FIFA said the most serious political incident occurred in Atlanta, where some Argentina players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas son argentinas” – “The Falkland Islands are Argentine” – following their semi-final victory over England, directly referencing the long-standing sovereignty dispute between the two countries.

In a statement, FIFA stressed that using its competitions as a platform for non-sporting messages is a clear violation of its disciplinary regulations, and noted that Argentina has previously been sanctioned for a similar act. In 2014, the AFA was fined £20,000 after a comparable Falklands-themed banner was displayed before a friendly against Slovenia.

The current case, however, goes beyond that single incident. FIFA has compiled what is described as an extensive list of alleged infractions by Argentina during the World Cup, covering the behaviour of both the team and its fans across several matches.

According to the governing body, the charges include discriminatory chants and gestures, repeated delays to kick-offs, failures to comply with safety and security protocols inside stadiums, inappropriate messaging attributed to players and supporters, and the throwing of objects from the stands during more than one fixture.

Final flashpoint under scrutiny

The scope of the investigation also includes events at the World Cup final in New Jersey, where Argentina were beaten 1-0 by Spain after extra time. Tensions spilled over at the final whistle, prompting a brief confrontation between players from both sides.

The flashpoint was triggered when Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes pushed Spain’s Gavi to the ground after the match had ended. Substitute players from Spain then entered the pitch to celebrate, adding to the chaotic scenes as emotions ran high following the decisive defeat.

FIFA has brought three separate assault-related charges against Paredes over his involvement in the post-match clash. His Argentina team-mate Nahuel Molina faces two similar counts.

In addition, Molina, Thiago Almada, and former referee Roberto Ayala – now a member of Argentina’s coaching staff – have each been charged, along with Gavi, with one count related to unsporting behaviour.

Process and next steps

FIFA concluded its statement by confirming that all individuals and parties cited in the case have been informed of the allegations and invited to submit their responses.

“According to the Disciplinary Code, the accused have been given the opportunity to present their position, after which the Disciplinary Committee will issue its decision in due course,” the statement said.

No timeline has yet been set publicly for a verdict or any potential sanctions.