UEFA has launched disciplinary proceedings against Spain's captain Alvaro Morata and teammate Rodri following their chant of "Gibraltar is Spanish" during the Euro 2024 victory celebrations.
The Gibraltar Football Association (GFA) filed an official complaint about the incident, prompting UEFA to appoint a disciplinary inspector to investigate a possible breach of its regulations.
Morata and Rodri are now accused of violating the "general principles of conduct," breaking the fundamental rules of proper behavior, using a sporting event for political statements, and damaging the reputation of football and UEFA.
UEFA's control, ethics, and disciplinary body (CEDB) will decide on the matter in due course.
Gibraltar, a British territory since the 18th century located at the southern tip of Spain, has long been claimed by Spain.
The controversial chant took place on July 15 in Madrid's Cibeles Square, where tens of thousands of fans gathered to celebrate Spain's 2-1 victory over England in the Euro 2024 final. Manchester City midfielder Rodri, 28, was seen leading the chant on stage, with AC Milan striker Morata, 31, encouraging the crowd to join in.
The Gibraltar FA condemned the actions of the Spanish team, highlighting the provocative and offensive nature of the celebrations and stating that "football has no place for behavior of this kind."
