Spain football stars suspended for controversial Gibraltar chants during Euro celebration

On Aug. 7, the UEFA announced that Rodri and Morata will be banned for one international match.

Morata and Rodri allegedly chanted “It’s Spain, Gibraltar is Spain” at the Euro title celebration on July 15, which led to controversy.

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, UEFA had accused Rodri and Morata of many violations, including failing to comply with the general code of conduct, taking advantage of sporting events to demonstrate an unsporting nature and discrediting football and UEFA.

With the sanction, Rodri and Morata will miss the opening match of the Nations League group stage against Serbia on Sept. 5.

Both played major roles in Spain’s claiming a record fourth Euro title after beating England 2-1 in the final on July 14. Morata was Spain’s captain at the tournament, while Rodri was a mainstay in midfield and was named Euro’s player of the tournament.