August 7 – Spanish internationals Rodri and Alvaro Morata have both been handed a one-game ban by UEFA over chants they made regarding the sovereignty of Gibraltar and which were a direct taunt at England.
Following a formal complaint by the Gibraltar FA, the pair have been punished for singing ‘Gibraltar is Spanish’ during their Euro 24 celebrations in Madrid after beating England 2-1 in the final.
On the southern tip of Spain, Gibraltar has been a British Overseas Territory for more than 300 years and is also an independent UEFA member, but its status has long been a sensitive political issue, with some in Spain believing Britain’s control is illegal.
Uefa judged that Rodri, who was named player of the tournament, and Morata “violated the basic rules of decent conduct, used a sporting event for a manifestation of a non-sporting nature, and brought the sport into disrepute.”
Both are expected to challenge the decision according to a report in el Mundo Deportivo but the Gibraltar Football Association welcomed UEFA’s ruling.
“The Gibraltar FA is delighted to see that the outcome of its complaint is the recognition and confirmation that the players’ chants of ‘Gibraltar es español’ violated UEFA Disciplinary Regulations, specifically Article 11,” a statement said.
“This article mandates respect for the principles of ethical conduct, loyalty, integrity, and sportsmanship, and prohibits actions that insult and violate basic rules of decent conduct, or use sporting events for non-sporting manifestations.”
“The decision by UEFA reinforces the principle that the chants “Gibraltar es espanol”, have brought the sport of football, and in particular UEFA, into disrepute, and confirms that there is no place for politically charged or discriminatory behaviour in football. The core issue at hand was the inappropriate and inflammatory nature of the chants, which not only disrespected the people of Gibraltar but also brought politics into a sporting arena, undermining the values of unity and respect that the sport embodies.
“The Gibraltar FA is pleased that UEFA has acknowledged the severity of this incident and has acted accordingly. This decision sends a clear message that football must remain a platform for promoting peace, understanding, and fair play, free from divisive and offensive actions such as the chants.
“We remain committed to upholding these values and will continue to advocate for respect within the sport.”
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