Argentina Football Legend Rattín Dies at 89

Argentina has lost former captain Antonio Rattín, who was best remembered for his controversial sending-off against England at the 1966 FIFA World Cup, at the age of 89.

Boca Juniors confirmed Rattín’s death on Saturday, describing him as “an idol and emblem” of the club.

“We stand with his family and loved ones in this difficult moment. Farewell ‘Rata’,” the club said in a statement shared on social media.

The Boca Juniors legend was born on May 16, 1937.

He spent his entire playing career with Boca Juniors, where he became one of the club’s most respected figures.

The midfielder earned 34 caps for Argentina and featured at the 1962 and 1966 World Cups.

However, his name became widely known internationally after his dismissal during Argentina’s 1966 quarter-final clash with England at Wembley.

Rattín was sent off in the 35th minute after a challenge on England’s Roger Hunt led to a booking.

Argentina has lost former captain Antonio Rattín. Credit: X.

A language barrier between him and German referee Rudolf Kreitlein escalated the situation, resulting in his controversial dismissal.

After leaving the pitch following a lengthy delay, Rattín famously walked over to an area near the England corner flag and sat on a red carpet reserved for Queen Elizabeth II.

The incident later influenced FIFA’s decision to introduce yellow and red cards at the 1970 World Cup to improve communication between referees and players.

Rattín played 382 matches for Boca Juniors, scoring 28 goals and winning four major titles, including three Argentine league championships and the 1969 Copa Argentina.

After retiring as a player, he briefly managed Boca Juniors in 1980 before moving into politics, where he served as an Argentine national deputy from 2001 to 2005.

A statue honouring Rattín was unveiled at Boca’s La Bombonera stadium in 2015, cementing his place as one of the club’s greatest icons.

Con mucho pesar, lamentamos el fallecimiento de Antonio Ubaldo Rattín, ídolo y emblema de nuestra Institución.

Acompañamos a su familia y seres queridos en este difícil momento.

Hasta siempre, Rata. 💙💛💙 pic.twitter.com/RYODn1j4r0

— Boca Juniors (@BocaJrsOficial) July 11, 2026

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