Argentina's football team has reignited international debate by displaying a banner claiming the Falkland Islands belong to Argentina during the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Australian resident Sally Poncet, who has lived on the islands for over 40 years, condemned the move as 'crass' and 'ignorant,' highlighting the ongoing political tensions between Argentina and the UK-occupied territory.

The banner, which reads 'Los Malvinas Son Argentinas,' was unfurled after Argentina's semi-final victory over England, reigniting memories of the 1982 Falklands War.

Falkland Islanders, who hold British passports but live under British military protection, expressed frustration at being 'used as political football.' FIFA has stated it is assessing the incident under standard procedure, while UK officials demanded an investigation.Argentina's president, Javier Milei, defended the gesture, emphasizing Argentina's historical claim to the islands.

The Falkland Islands government called the display 'disappointing' but not unexpected, noting the region's history of conflict and its reliance on UK geopolitical support.