Argentina’s vice president has sparked controversy by asserting the country’s claim over the Falklands following their World Cup victory against England. Victoria Villarruel, whose father fought in the Falklands War, shared a photo of Argentine players holding a banner on the field stating “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (The Malvinas belong to Argentina). Despite FIFA’s ban on political displays in stadiums, the Argentine team openly supported the claim. The match, which Argentina won 2-1, was emotionally charged with references to the Falklands, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi.

The tension escalated as fights broke out on the pitch between the two nations. Despite efforts to avoid mixing politics with sports, some Argentine players, including Messi, displayed the banner after the win. Argentina’s dispute with Britain over the Falklands dates back to the 1982 conflict, resulting in numerous casualties. The Falkland Islands, initially claimed by the British in 1765, voted in 2013 to remain a UK overseas territory.

The historical and political significance of the Falklands remains a contentious issue between Argentina and the UK, with both nations holding firm to their respective claims.