Authorities have imposed restrictions on fans of the Argentine national team ahead of their 2026 World Cup semi-final against England, prohibiting fans from displaying any political slogans or chants during the highly anticipated match.
According to the newspaper La Voz, the restrictions specifically include any messages relating to the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) issue, the historic dispute between Argentina and Britain, with London claiming the islands as its own, while Buenos Aires claims sovereignty over them.
Argentine Security Minister Alejandra Montoliva said that the assertion that "the Malvinas Islands belong to Argentina" is a political message, noting that the agreement was intended to prevent any manifestations that could lead to tension or violence among the crowds.
The sensitivity of the issue stems from the 1982 war between Argentina and the United Kingdom over control of the islands, which ended in a British victory and the defeat of the Argentine forces.
The 2026 World Cup semi-final between Argentina and England will take place on July 15 at 22:00 Mecca time, in Atlanta, USA. The winner will then face Spain in the final on July 19, after the Spanish team secured their place by defeating France 2-0.
