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[SPORTS] · Argentina, United Kingdom · 100 sources

Argentina FIFA probe over Malvinas banner after World Cup semi

Argentina defeated England 2‑1 in the World Cup 2026 semi‑final in Atlanta. After the final whistle several Argentine players lifted a banner reading “Las Malvinas son argentinas” (The Falkland Islands are Argentine) onto the pitch.

The United Kingdom government, through Business Secretary Peter Kyle and Prime Minister’s office, called the display “totally inappropriate” and formally asked FIFA to open an investigation. FIFA has now opened a disciplinary case, noting that its regulations forbid political messages at World Cup events and indicating that a financial penalty for the Argentine Football Association is the likely outcome; no player suspensions have been announced before the final against Spain.

In Argentina, President Javier Milei and other officials defended the gesture as an expression of national sentiment, while some fans were reported to have spat on a UK flag. The Argentine government is also preparing security arrangements for the team’s return home. The controversy has sparked debate across the sporting and diplomatic arenas but the tournament proceeds with the final still scheduled for Sunday.

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