Key facts
- FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentina Football Association.
- The proceedings are related to a Falklands banner displayed after the semi-final win against England.
- The banner read "Las Malvinas son Argentinas," asserting Argentine claims to the islands.
- Charges also include player misconduct, discriminatory chants, and throwing of objects.
- Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three assault charges.
- Defender Nahuel Molina faces two charges, and coach Roberto Ayala faces one.
FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentina Football Association (AFA) following incidents during and after the World Cup final, including the display of a banner asserting Argentina's claim to the Falkland Islands. The banner, reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" (The Malvinas are Argentine), was unfurled by players after their semi-final victory over England.
Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three charges of assault stemming from post-game clashes after Spain's 1-0 win on July 19. Defender Nahuel Molina faces two charges, and coach Roberto Ayala faces one. Spain player Gavi is also charged with unsporting behaviour. FIFA cited "discriminatory chants and gestures" by fans, alleged assault by an assistant coach, and "throwing of objects by spectators" as additional reasons for the cases.
The Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory, are the subject of a long-standing sovereignty dispute with Argentina. The display of the banner prompted calls from members of the British government for FIFA to investigate. FIFA confirmed it is taking action based on rules prohibiting "demonstrations of a non-sporting nature, team misconduct, and discrimination and racist abuse."
This is not the first time the AFA has faced FIFA action for a similar display; the association was fined £20,000 in 2014 for players holding a banner with the same message. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente described the post-match incidents as "intolerable and unacceptable."