Key facts
- Argentinian players displayed a banner stating "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" after their World Cup semi-final victory.
- UK Business Secretary Peter Kyle called for FIFA to investigate the banner as a violation of rules against political activity in football.
- The White House defended the players' actions, citing First Amendment rights to free speech.
- The UK Prime Minister's spokesperson reiterated the UK's position that the Falkland Islands are British.
- FIFA confirmed its disciplinary committee is reviewing the incident.
UK Business Secretary Peter Kyle has called for FIFA to investigate an "egregious violation" after Argentinian players displayed a banner claiming the Falkland Islands are Argentine following their World Cup semi-final win against England. The banner, which read "Las Malvinas son Argentinas," was displayed after Argentina's 2-1 victory. Kyle stated that the World Cup's central tenet is that politics should be separate from football and expects FIFA to conduct a thorough investigation. The UK Prime Minister's office echoed these sentiments, reaffirming the UK's claim to the islands. Liberal Democrats leader Ed Davey suggested players involved should be barred from the final. Meanwhile, the White House defended the players' actions, citing First Amendment rights to free speech. Argentina's Vice-President Victoria Villarruel also posted a message supporting Argentina's claim. FIFA has confirmed its independent disciplinary committee is assessing the match reports and considering relevant circumstances before deciding on potential further steps. The Falklands government expressed disappointment, calling the banner insensitive and hoping FIFA will sanction such behavior. The dispute stems from the 1982 Falklands War, in which the UK and Argentina fought over the islands, which remain a UK territory despite Argentina's claim.