Argentine President Javier Mire breaks silence after 23 million people sign petition calling for World Cup ban | Football News
The fallout from Argentina’s humiliating defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final continues to intensify, with President Javier Milei launching a defiant response on social media after an online petition calling for Argentina to be banned from future World Cups surpassed 23 million signatures.Spain won the men’s World Cup for the second time, winning 1-0 in overtime at the New York-New Jersey Stadium. Luis de la Fuente’s side took control of the game and held off a shot from Lionel Messi’s Argentina in normal time before Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute.However, attention quickly shifted away from football after chaotic scenes erupted at the final whistle, prompting FIFA to launch disciplinary proceedings against several members of the Argentine delegation for their conduct.
Petition has over 28 million signatures
According to reports, “Argentina Out” The campaign officially ends after the World Cup final on July 19, 2026, with a total of 23,316,108 verified signatures from supporters in approximately 170 countries. The petition falls short of the Guinness World Record for the most signatures on an online petition, falling just short of the record-breaking 24.3 million signatures.The campaign is calling on FIFA to exclude Argentina from future World Cups, arguing the team’s behavior during and after the final damaged the image of the sport and calling for stronger action to protect fair play.The petition came after Argentina were fouled multiple times in a game that saw midfielder Enzo Fernandez sent off after receiving a second yellow card in stoppage time and was involved in an ugly confrontation after Spain’s win.
Spain’s Garvey (left) falls during a scuffle with Argentina’s Leandro Paredes (5) and Thiago Almada during the World Cup final soccer match in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, July 19, 2026. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)
Leandro Paredes was seen choking Spain defender Eric Garcia before clashing with Garvey, while Nahuel Molina appeared to throw a punch at Spain captain Rodri. FIFA has launched an investigation into the incidents, and the players, coaching staff and the Argentine Football Association may face disciplinary action.
Miley strikes back with social media post
Argentine President Javier Milley has not distanced himself from the growing controversy, posting a series of patriotic messages on Instagram defending the national team and criticizing what he says are hostility towards Argentina.One of the posts shared by the Argentine leader reads:“Do you have enemies? It means you have defended something. We defended Argentina.”In another article, Millay claimed that Argentina’s global popularity was the reason behind the criticism.“The problem with Argentina is that we stand out. We don’t go unnoticed, people are jealous of us and we are good at almost everything.”He also shared an AI-generated photo of himself ripping open his suit to reveal an Argentinian shirt underneath, with the caption:“Long live Argentina, damn it!”The posts were widely shared as debate over Argentina’s behavior continues at home and abroad.
Counter petition calls for World Cup final replay
This backlash also fueled a counter-movement within Argentina.Already have thousands of supporters Signed a separate petition Calls for a replay of the World Cup final accuse Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic of playing in favor of Spain.The petition claimed the final was influenced by “controversial and corrupt” refereeing and asked FIFA to overturn the result.However, no verified evidence has been provided to substantiate the allegations, nor is there any evidence of wrongdoing by FIFA or Vincic during the match.The Argentine Football Association also sought to quell speculation about a replay demand, while its president Claudio “Chichi” Tapia urged supporters to accept Spain’s victory.
Paredes remains unapologetic FIFA investigation continue
The controversy was fueled by comments from midfielder Leandro Paredes, who has come under scrutiny for his role in the post-match brawl.In a social media message posted after the final, Paredes expressed pride in Argentina but did not apologize for his actions.“Thank you Argentina! I love you today and always,” he wrote. “Today, my heart is filled with pain that we were unable to bring the joy our country deserves, but my chest is filled with pride that I gave everything we had and once again put our flag at the top.”He added, “It’s an honor to be part of the best Argentina team in history.”Along with Paredes, Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala remain under investigation by FIFA following the riot at MetLife Stadium.Meanwhile, criticism has grown outside Argentina’s borders. Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente recently described the scene as “unbearable” and praised his players for remaining calm throughout the confrontation, while FIFA’s disciplinary process continues, with world football’s governing body reviewing referee reports and final footage.
Post Comment