World Cup Final: FIFA Won’t Ban Argentina Players After England Controversy
FIFA have faced calls to punish Argentina players with a ban for the 2026 World Cup final following the controversial banner they were pictured with against England.
Lionel Scaloni’s side made a brilliant comeback to defeat the Three Lions through goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez in the dying stages of the game. It was fierce and aggressive on the pitch, but emotions were heightened further after the full-time whistle.
Several members of La Albiceleste’s squad were seen holding a banner with the message ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’, which translates to ‘The Falkland Islands are Argentinian’. FIFA rules state political banners aren’t allowed, and there have been calls for urgent action to be taken.
FIFA Decide World Cup Final Fate
Among those who have strongly suggested that world football’s governing body should punish the Argentina players involved immediately was British politician Ed Davey. He even penned a letter to Gianni Infantino, pointing out the precedent UEFA set by banning two Spanish players for a similar incident in 2024.
According to Spanish radio station COPE (via Metro), FIFA have already decided whether any potential suspensions will be put in place for the World Cup final this Sunday.
While an investigation is reportedly underway, it is believed that no Argentine players will be suspended for this weekend’s spectacle. Among the players at risk of possible sanctions are Premier League duo Lisandro Martinez and Cristian Romero, as well as Giovanni Lo Celso and Leandro Paredes.
Article 34.3 of FIFA’s rules bans the display of any political messages or slogans by players before, during or after a match. But Argentine outlet Clarin have still stated that sporting sanctions are ‘less likely’.
Argentina were previously fined $20,000 for players displaying the same message in a 2014 friendly against Slovenia.
Statement Made Over Argentina Investigation
The UK government were firm in its stance over the Falklands banner. A spokesperson said on Thursday: “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are. Our position is unchanged. Self-determination rests with the islanders. Our commitment to the Falklands will never waver.”
Now, FIFA have confirmed they are looking into the incident and the disciplinary committee will decide on the necessary action to take. A representative said (via The Independent):
“As is standard procedure, FIFA’s independent Disciplinary Committee is currently assessing the match reports and considering the relevant circumstances before deciding on potential further steps based on the FIFA Disciplinary Code.”
