Argentina fans displayed multiple banners asserting their claim to the Falkland Islands, known as 'Las Malvinas' in Argentina, during Lionel Messi's farewell match. The emotionally charged game, held at the 85,000-capacity Estadio Monumental, saw some supporters use the occasion to project a political message.
One banner prominently read "Las Malvinas son Argentinas," while another featured an outline of the Falkland Islands colored with the blue and white of the Argentinian flag. These displays occurred amidst a massive crowd gathered to celebrate the likely last international appearance for the iconic footballer.
The presence of these banners follows similar incidents where Argentinian fans have used sporting events to assert their claim over the islands. This included displays after Argentina's World Cup semi-final victory against England and during a rugby match against South Africa earlier in the year. Following the World Cup win, some Argentinian players also made references to the Falklands dispute.
The Falkland Islands, a self-governing British Overseas Territory located approximately 300 miles east of Argentina, have been a point of contention between the two nations since Britain established governance in January 1833. The islands were the subject of a conflict between Argentina and the United Kingdom in 1982. A referendum held in the Falklands in 2013 saw 99.8% of citizens vote to remain a British territory.
The display of such banners has previously drawn criticism in the UK. FIFA's rules prohibit political messaging at World Cup events, and investigations have been opened in the past. However, there have been instances where FIFA has appeared to overlook related messaging.
Argentinian President Javier Milei has previously supported such displays, describing them as "perfectly valid" and reflecting a "sentiment shared by all Argentines."
The match itself was a significant event, marking what is reported to be Messi's 208th and final appearance for the national team. Tickets for the farewell fixture sold out rapidly. In Messi's hometown of Rosario, a giant replica of his No.10 shirt emblazoned with 'Gracias' was unfurled, and a large statue of him with the World Cup trophy was erected in Patagonia, illustrating the widespread adulation for the player.
