Morata, Rodri Banned for Gibraltar Chant

Spanish footballers Alvaro Morata and Rodri have been handed one-match international bans by UEFA for chanting 'Gibraltar is Spanish' during their Euro 2024 victory celebrations in Madrid. The Gibraltar Football Association filed a complaint, deeming the chants as 'extremely provocative and insulting,' and UEFA's disciplinary body found the players guilty of violating the basic rules of decent conduct and using sporting events for non-sporting manifestations. Gibraltar, a British territory since 1713, has repeatedly rejected Spanish sovereignty in referendums. The bans will be served in Spain's next match against Serbia on September 5. UEFA's decision underscores its stance that football should promote peace and fair play, free from divisive actions.