FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) following several incidents during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The case includes a politically charged Falklands banner displayed after Argentina’s semi-final victory over England.
FIFA is examining alleged breaches across several matches. The allegations cover Articles 13, 14, 15 and 17 of the disciplinary code.
They include political demonstrations, team misconduct, discriminatory or racist behaviour, and failures involving match order and security.
Falklands banner under investigation
One of the main issues involves Argentina’s celebrations after their 2-1 win over England in the semi-final.
Several players appeared with a banner that read “Las Malvinas son Argentinas”. The phrase means “The Falklands are Argentine”.
The message refers to the disputed South Atlantic islands. Argentina and the United Kingdom both claim the territory.
FIFA regulations prohibit political, religious and personal messages at its competitions.
As a result, the banner now forms part of the disciplinary case against the AFA.
Players charged after World Cup final
The investigation also covers Argentina’s behaviour after their 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.
FIFA has charged several players and officials over their alleged roles in a post-match confrontation.
Leandro Paredes faces three alleged assault violations.
Nahuel Molina and Thiago Almada also face assault-related allegations. Assistant coach Roberto Ayala has also been charged.
Gavi faces an unsporting behaviour charge.
The investigation goes beyond the banner and final-related incidents.
FIFA is also examining alleged discriminatory behaviour and team misconduct. The case includes concerns about match security and order.
Officials are also looking into alleged delays to kick-offs during Argentina’s World Cup campaign.
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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