Spain players face ban for controversial chants about Gibraltar during Euro celebration

Amid the jubilant atmosphere with a sea of fans at Cibeles Square, Madrid on July 15, Morata and Rodri allegedly chanted “It’s Spanish, Gibraltar is Spanish” at the party, which led to controversy.

Gibraltar Football Association (GFA) did not sit well with the chant. They filed a complaint and UEFA has launched an investigation into the incident. Morata and Rodri could be banned for two games if UEFA finds any violation of speech.

If Morata and Rodri get suspended, they will miss Spain’s two matches in the Nations League group stage in September, against Serbia and Switzerland. Morata is the captain and coach Luis de la Fuente’s number one choice in the striker position, while vice-captain Rodri is the commander in the midfield and was named the best player of Euro 2024.

Gibraltar is one of the 14 British overseas territories, located at the southern tip of the Iberian Peninsula, covering an area of 6.7 sq.km and bordering Spain to the north. Gibraltar’s sovereignty is controversial in Anglo-Spanish relations, with Spain asserting its claim to the territory.

Gibraltar rejected proposals for Spanish sovereignty in the 1967 referendum and for common sovereignty in the 2002 referendum. However, Gibraltar maintains close economic and cultural links with Spain.

Previously in Euro 2024, Turkey defender Merih Demiral was banned for two matches for using the grey wolf symbol of an extremist nationalist movement group while celebrating a goal in the victory over Austria in the round of 16. English midfielder Jude Bellingham was also banned for one match for his rude gesture after scoring against Slovakia.

Outside of Euro, Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez is also at risk of being punished for his recent behavior. After defeating Colombia in the 2024 Copa America final, Fernandez and some teammates chanted racism remarks aimed directly at players of France, whom they defeated in the 2022 World Cup final.