Argentina faces FIFA disciplinary proceedings over...

By Rohan Gupta — 29 July 2026 — 3 min read

Disciplinary action initiated by FIFA

FIFA has initiated disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA), several players, and coaching staff following various incidents during and after the recent 2026 FIFA World Cup. The charges stem from events surrounding the team’s semi-final victory over England, the chaotic aftermath of their 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the final, and fan behaviour throughout the tournament.

The proceedings address a range of alleged breaches of FIFA’s disciplinary code, including the display of a politically sensitive banner, altercations on the pitch after the final match, and other conduct violations. Those charged have been given the opportunity to present their position, with decisions expected from the FIFA disciplinary committee in due course.

Falklands banner incident

One of the key charges against the AFA relates to a banner displayed by Argentina players after their 2-1 semi-final win against England in Atlanta. As the team celebrated reaching the final, several players held a sign proclaiming “Las Malvinas son Argentinas,” referring to the Falkland Islands, known as the Islas Malvinas in Argentina.

This display is considered a violation of FIFA’s disciplinary code, which prohibits “using a sports event for demonstrations of a non-sporting nature.” The dispute over the islands is a long-standing issue, with the territory having been ruled by Britain since 1833. A 74-day conflict in 1982 resulted in the loss of over 900 lives, including 649 Argentinians and 255 Britons.

The banner prompted political debate, with a spokesperson for the then UK prime minister stating, “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are.” Conversely, the head of the White House Fifa taskforce defended Argentina’s players, citing a belief in free speech. This is not the first instance of such sentiments from an Argentina team; in 2014, FIFA fined Argentina £20,000 for a larger banner displayed before a friendly match.

Post-final altercations and player charges

Further disciplinary action has been initiated concerning the chaotic scenes that followed Argentina’s 1-0 extra-time defeat by Spain in the final. As Spain attempted to celebrate their victory, altercations reportedly broke out across the pitch at New York New Jersey Stadium.

Several Argentina players and an assistant coach are under investigation. Midfielder Leandro Paredes faces three counts of assault under Article 14 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code. He was reportedly seen wrestling Spain’s Eric García to the ground and is alleged to have grabbed and pushed Spain players, including Gavi, during the post-match confrontation. Defender Nahuel Molina faces two counts of assault, one completed and one attempted, after allegedly striking Spain captain Rodri. Molina also faces an additional charge of unsporting behaviour.

Assistant coach Roberto Ayala has been charged with one count of assault for his involvement in the confrontation. Additionally, Thiago Almada, an unused substitute in the final, faces one count of unsporting behaviour. Spain’s Gavi also faces an unsporting behaviour charge arising from the same incident.

If found guilty, players could face match suspensions and financial penalties. Assault offences under FIFA’s disciplinary regulations can lead to bans of at least three matches, while unsporting behaviour may result in a minimum one-match suspension.

Additional allegations against the AFA

The disciplinary case against the AFA extends beyond the banner incident and the post-final altercations, encompassing several alleged breaches recorded throughout the tournament. FIFA is investigating a range of issues, including alleged discriminatory chants and gestures by Argentina supporters.

Other allegations include the throwing of objects by spectators during multiple matches, alleged failures relating to match organisation and security protocols, and general team misconduct linked to the mass confrontation after the World Cup final. These matters will be reviewed separately by FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee, which will issue a decision in due course after all parties have had the opportunity to present their positions.

Source: theguardian.com