Hours Before World Cup Final, FIFA Reaches Verdict on Argentina
FIFA has ruled that Argentina’s players will not face immediate punishment over the controversial banner displayed during their celebrations after defeating England in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The decision removes any uncertainty over the availability of Lionel Scaloni’s squad ahead of Sunday’s final against Spain, with no player expected to miss the title clash because of the incident.
Argentina secured their place in the final after producing a dramatic late comeback against England.
The defending champions were on the brink of elimination after Anthony Gordon’s first-half strike put England in front.
But Enzo Fernández drew Argentina level late in the game before Lautaro Martínez headed home Lionel Messi’s cross deep into stoppage time to seal a memorable 2-1 victory.
Soon after the final whistle, attention shifted away from the result when several Argentina players celebrated with a banner carrying the words “Las Malvinas son Argentinas,” meaning “The Falklands are Argentine.”
The slogan refers to the decades-old territorial dispute between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the Falkland Islands.
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martínez, Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández and Giovani Lo Celso were among the players seen posing with the banner as celebrations continued on the pitch.
The incident sparked debate over whether FIFA would take disciplinary action, as the organisation’s World Cup regulations prohibit players and officials from displaying political slogans or messages before, during or after matches.
Despite the controversy, FIFA has opted against taking immediate action, meaning Argentina will head into the World Cup final with a full squad available.
The decision clears the way for the South American giants to concentrate on Sunday’s showdown with Spain as they chase back-to-back World Cup titles.
While discussions over the post-match celebrations continue, FIFA’s verdict means the controversy will not affect Argentina’s preparations for the biggest match of the tournament.
