By Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw
It has been confirmed that FIFA will investigate the conduct of Argentina following the end of the 2026 World Cup final on 19 July 2026.
The disciplinary committee of FIFA has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess what happened.
Any player or coach found to be involved in the fracas could face suspensions, and the Argentine Football Association could also be fined.
FIFA has begun the process of potential disciplinary action against Argentina after their players held a banner in support of their country's claims to the Falkland Islands following the 2-1 semi-final win against England.
The conduct of the Argentina team and back-room staff has been described in football circles as unsportsmanlike and totally unacceptable, and there have also been calls for Argentina to be banned form the next World Cup.
Alan Shearer, the BBC football pundit, commented:
"We know how much it means to them and we know how much it hurts to lose, but there is a way to lose. Too many times, we have seen that from Argentina. The reaction after the final whistle is terrible."
Following the Folarin Balogun suspension of red card affair, the credibility of FIFA is on the line, and FIFA, therefore, needs to take decisive action without delay and send a clear message that such conduct by Argentina will not be tolerated!
Prof Dr Ian Blackshaw may be contacted by e-mail at ‘