FIFA opens disciplinary proceedings against Argentina over World Cup incidents
FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) following several incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including the display of a politically charged Falklands banner after their semi-final victory over England.
The Argentinian Football Association is facing disciplinary proceedings for alleged breaches across multiple matches, including using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature (Article 13), team misconduct (Article 14), discrimination and racist abuse (Article 15), and breaches relating to order and security at matches (Article 17).
Falklands banner under investigation
One of the main issues relates to celebrations after Argentina's 2-1 win over England in the semi-finals.
Several players were pictured holding a banner reading "Las Malvinas son Argentinas" ("The Falklands are Argentine"), referring to the disputed South Atlantic islands that are claimed by both Argentina and the United Kingdom.
FIFA rules prohibit political, religious or personal messages at its competitions, with the incident now forming part of the disciplinary case against the AFA.
Players charged after World Cup final
The investigation also covers Argentina's behaviour following their 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.
Several players and officials have been charged over their alleged involvement in the post-match confrontation.
Defensive midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three alleged assault violations, while defender Nahuel Molina, attacking midfielder Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala have also been charged with assault-related offences.
Gavi is among those facing an unsporting behaviour charge.
In addition to the banner and post-final incidents, FIFA is examining other alleged breaches involving discriminatory behaviour, team misconduct, security and order at matches, and delays to kick-offs during Argentina's tournament campaign.
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Argentina await FIFA decision
FIFA has not announced any sanctions at this stage, with all parties now invited to submit their responses before the disciplinary committee reaches a final decision.
This is not the first time Argentina has faced scrutiny over the Falklands issue.
In 2014, the AFA was fined by FIFA after displaying a similar political message before an international friendly, with the governing body maintaining its stance that football should remain free from political demonstrations.
Any punishments resulting from the latest proceedings could range from fines for the AFA to suspensions for individual players or officials, depending on FIFA's findings once the disciplinary process has concluded.
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