Argentina’s World Cup players are facing calls for a ban after several players celebrated their 2-1 Semi final victory over England by carrying a banner claiming the Falkland Islands belong to Argentina.
Tottenham captain Cristian Romero, Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez and former Spurs midfielder Giovani Lo Celso were pictured with the controversial sign after the final whistle in Atlanta. Captain Lionel Messi was also seen dancing alongside the banner as Argentina lifted the banner , in apparent breach of FIFA’s rules prohibiting political statements at matches.
FIFA has not yet commented, but the governing body is under mounting pressure to sanction Argentina for flouting its regulations. Manchester United and Tottenham are also being urged to take disciplinary action against Romero and Martinez over their involvement in the celebration, which was broadcast to an estimated 950 million viewers worldwide.
This is not the first time Argentina players have displayed the Falklands banner. Twelve years ago the team carried a similar sign at an international friendly and was fined £20,000 by FIFA. Critics argue that given the scale of Sunday’s final, tougher sanctions are now warranted.
Calls for action have intensified online and among football officials, with many saying political messages have no place in the sport. FIFA is expected to open proceedings in the coming days to determine whether Argentina and the players involved will face fines, suspensions, or other penalties Argentina will face Spain in Final on Sunday July 19 to determine the eventual einner of 2026 World Cup
