Argentina faced backlash from a government minister for displaying a banner about the Falkland Islands following their 2-1 World Cup semifinal victory over England.
After their win on Wednesday night, several Argentine players showcased a banner stating, “The Falkland Islands are Argentine.”
The Falkland Islands remain a UK overseas territory, and island residents voted overwhelmingly to maintain this status in 2013. Argentina invaded the islands in April 1982 but surrendered by June of that year. Previously, FIFA imposed a fine on Argentina for a similar banner displayed after a friendly match against Slovenia in 2014.
According to Article 34.3 of the tournament regulations, players are prohibited from showcasing any political messages or slogans before, during, or after matches.
Peter Kyle, Business Secretary, expressed his opinion on “BBC Breakfast,” stating, “My reaction is that it was entirely inappropriate. Politics must remain distinct from football. One of the World Cup’s core principles is to keep politics separate from the sport. Now, it’s up to FIFA, and I expect them to conduct a thorough investigation.”
He went on to say, “We expect FIFA to investigate this matter. Given the blatant disregard for the rules prohibiting political activity in football, such a response was inevitable.”
A spokesperson for the Prime Minister commented to Sky News, “Although we may not own the World Cup, the Falklands certainly belong to us. Our position remains steadfast, with unwavering commitment to the Falklands.” They echoed Kyle’s call for FIFA to address the issue while wishing both teams well for the final, especially Spain.
Kemi Badenoch, leader of the Conservative Party, took to social media to declare, “The Falkland Islands are British. The Conservatives will always stand up for them.”
Following the Euro 2024 final, UEFA banned Spanish players Rodri and Álvaro Morata for one match each after they sang about their country’s claim to Gibraltar. Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey has called for suspensions for any Argentina players involved with the banner ahead of Sunday’s final against Spain.
Former England international Peter Reid criticized the Argentina banner display as “beyond the pale.”
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ESPN has reached out to FIFA for comment.
England’s World Cup campaign concluded as they surrendered an early lead from Anthony Gordon with two late goals by Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez, both assisted by Lionel Messi. Spain advanced to the final after defeating France on Tuesday.
Press Association contributed to this report.