The British government has backed calls for an investigation into Argentine players accused of displaying a banner bearing a political message regarding the Falkland Islands after defeating England in the World Cup.
Controversy arose after several Argentine players were seen holding a banner supporting their country’s claim to the Falkland Islands following a 2-1 victory over England in a World Cup match held in Atlanta, USA, on Wednesday.
Downing Street, the office of the British Prime Minister, stated that the government supports the position taken by Business and Trade Minister Peter Kyle, who called for a FIFA investigation into the matter.
A Downing Street spokesperson said, “The World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands certainly are. Our commitment to the Falklands will never waver.”
He added that it is entirely up to FIFA to decide whether any action will be taken. When asked if the Prime Minister also supports an investigation, he replied, “I am reiterating the Business Minister’s position.”
He was subsequently asked if Downing Street agreed with Peter Kyle’s assessment that the incident constituted a “serious violation” of tournament rules.
In response, the spokesperson said, “What action is taken is a matter for FIFA. I would point to the Business Minister’s comments on this.”
Meanwhile, Ed Davey, leader of Britain’s Liberal Democrat party, has demanded that the Argentine players seen with the banner be banned from the World Cup final against Spain this coming Sunday.
According to Article 34.3 of the World Cup tournament regulations, players are prohibited from displaying any political messages or slogans before, during, or after a match.
It has since been reported that FIFA, the global governing body of football, has already launched an investigation into the incident.
