FIFA Files Disciplinary Charges Against Argentina Over Post‑Final Altercations and Political Banner
Published On 29 Jul 2026
FIFA has filed disciplinary charges against two Argentine players for striking opponents moments after the World Cup final and charged the country’s football federation for displaying a political banner related to the Falkland Islands following a semifinal victory over England.
The disciplinary cases opened by FIFA against Argentina include alleged assaults by players and staff, discriminatory chants by fans, and objects thrown by spectators during several matches.
Midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three assault charges related to post‑game clashes after Spain’s 1‑0 win on July 19, while defender Nahuel Molina faces two charges and assistant coach Roberto Ayala one.
Molina and Thiago Almada are also charged with unsporting behaviour, a charge also applied to Spanish player Gavi.
After defeating England 2‑1 in the semifinals, Argentina’s players displayed a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” — “The Falkland Islands are Argentine.”
Argentina refers to the Falkland Islands as Islas Malvinas, a term stemming from the 1982 invasion that sparked a ten‑week conflict ultimately won by Britain.
British officials urged FIFA to investigate, and the governing body confirmed that formal charges were filed for “using a sports event for demonstrations of a non‑sporting nature.”
FIFA stated that all charged individuals have been given the opportunity to present their positions, after which the FIFA Disciplinary Committee will issue a decision in due course.
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