ZURICH: FIFA has opened disciplinary proceedings against the Argentine Football Association (AFA) and several of the country’s players following several alleged violations during the World Cup campaign, including the display of banners related to the sovereignty claim over the Falkland Islands.
After Argentina’s victory over England in the semi-final in Atlanta, several players held up banners bearing the slogan ‘Las Malvinas Son Argentinas’ (The Falkland Islands belong to Argentina).
FIFA has warned that the use of sporting events for non-sporting demonstration purposes may violate the world football governing body’s Disciplinary Code.
In 2014, Argentina was fined 20,000 pounds for displaying a similar banner before a friendly match against Slovenia.
In addition to the issue, FIFA is also investigating several other alleged violations throughout the tournament, including discriminatory chants and gestures, delayed kick-offs, failure to comply with safety protocols, the display of inappropriate messages by teams and fans, and incidents of fans throwing objects onto the pitch.
In a similar development, FIFA has also opened disciplinary proceedings against several players following incidents after the final in New Jersey which saw Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time.
A brief scuffle broke out shortly after the final whistle when Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes pushed Gavi down as Spain’s substitutes entered the field to celebrate the victory.
Paredes faces three charges related to physical assault, while Nahuel Molina is charged with two counts.
Molina, Thiago Almada, Argentine official Roberto Ayala and Spanish player Gavi each also face one charge of unsportsmanlike conduct.
“In accordance with the FIFA Disciplinary Code, all parties involved are now given the opportunity to submit explanations before the FIFA Disciplinary Committee makes the appropriate decision,” a FIFA statement said.