Spain in Hot Water with UEFA After Euro 2024 Celebrations
Spain’s triumphant Euro 2024 celebrations have taken a sour turn, with the Gibraltar FA set to lodge an official complaint with UEFA over the behavior of the Spanish national team. The complaint stems from chants and songs sung by the team, including captain Alvaro Morata and Manchester City star Rodri, which included the lyric "Gibraltar is Spanish."
The controversy surrounds the fact that Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory, and has been under British control since 1713. The subject of Gibraltar and who governs it is a popular talking point among Spanish far-right political parties.
The Gibraltar FA has released a statement condemning the behavior, saying: "The Association is this morning taking advice on the filing of a complaint to European Football’s governing body, UEFA, in relation to the unacceptable chanting and songs, relating to Gibraltar, sung by Spain’s Men’s National Team players after winning Euro 2024. Football has no place for behaviour of this nature."
UEFA has a strict policy against provocative messages shared by players during and after matches. In 2024, Albania forward Mirlind Daku received a two-game suspension for leading his team’s supporters in derogatory chants following a draw with Croatia. UEFA also fined the Albania Football Association £21,250 (€25,000) for "transmitting provocative messages not fit for a sports event."
The Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has been contacted for comment, but so far, no response has been given.
What’s Next?
UEFA will likely take a dim view of the situation, and Spain could face punishment for the behavior of their players. The Spanish national team has a reputation for being passionate and proud, but this kind of behavior is unacceptable and has no place in the beautiful game.
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