UEFA has announced that Spain’s team captain Álvaro Morata and midfielder Rodri have been charged for not following the organization’s “basic rules of decent conduct.” This comes after the duo led fans in singing “Gibraltar is Spanish” during a celebration in Madrid following Spain’s victory over England in the Euro 2024 final.
Gibraltar, located at the southern tip of Spain, has been a British overseas territory for over three centuries. The UEFA charges also include allegations of bringing football and the organization into disrepute.
The Gibraltar soccer federation formally complained to UEFA about the incident, which led to the disciplinary proceedings against Morata and Rodri. UEFA will make a decision on the case at a later date, with the possibility of the players being suspended from Nations League games in September.
In a similar incident during Euro 2024, UEFA banned Albania’s Mirlind Daku for two games for inciting nationalist chants against Serbia and North Macedonia. Morata recently transferred from Atlético Madrid to AC Milan, while Rodri, who was named player of the tournament at Euro 2024, currently plays for Manchester City.
The charges against Morata and Rodri are seen as an important step in addressing the unlawfulness of the chant, as highlighted by the Gibraltar FA’s complaint. It remains to be seen how UEFA will handle the situation and what the consequences will be for the players involved.
It is essential for players and teams to uphold the values of respect and fair play in football, both on and off the field. Incidents like these serve as a reminder of the impact of players’ actions and words, and the responsibility they have as role models for fans and aspiring athletes.
As fans, it is important to remember the significance of sportsmanship and respect for all individuals and communities, regardless of differences in opinions or beliefs. Let us continue to support our teams and players in a positive and respectful manner, both in victory and defeat.