While FIFA Investigates: Infantino Praises Argentina's "Professionalism"
FIFA President sent a letter to the chairman of the Argentine Football Association after the loss to Spain in the World Cup final, and complimented the players and staff for "constant work, commitment and attention to detail" — despite the events at the end of the match and the investigation opened following the confrontation.
The letter from FIFA President Gianni Infantino to the Argentine Football Association is drawing criticism, after he chose to praise the "professionalism" of the national team while the organization he heads is investigating the events that took place after the loss to Spain in the World Cup final.
Congratulatory letters to teams that won medals are a common practice after the tournament, and the three teams that finished on the podium also received a letter from Infantino. However, the Daily Mail criticized his choice of words in the letter sent to the chairman of the Argentine Football Association, Claudio Tapia.
"Argentina won the silver medal of the 2026 World Cup, after a fascinating final against Spain," wrote Infantino. "I would like to reiterate my most sincere congratulations on this important achievement for Argentine football."
The FIFA President added that the World Cup will be remembered as an "unforgettable celebration of football," and praised Argentina's contribution to the success of the tournament. "The impressive performance of the Albiceleste contributed decisively to making the tournament an exceptional event, which captivated millions of football fans around the world," he wrote.
Infantino asked Tapia to convey his congratulations to the players, coach Lionel Scaloni, the professional and medical staff, and the fans who accompanied the team. He further wrote:
"Such achievements are always the result of constant work, professionalism and attention to detail, but also of passion, commitment and love for this wonderful sport."
The compliments came despite the storm that developed around the behavior of the Argentine team members after the final. Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time, and afterwards its players turned their backs while the Spaniards lifted the World Cup.
In addition, FIFA has opened an investigation following a confrontation that developed after the final whistle. According to reports, Leandro Paredes attacked Eric Garcia, and the incident allegedly also involved Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala.
Also during the tournament, Argentina was criticized for its style of play and attempts to influence the referees. In the final, it was claimed that Lionel Messi tried to get Marc Cucurella sent off, after the Spanish defender covered his mouth while talking to the referee. Similar claims were also made after the semi-final against England.
The Argentine team caused another stir after celebrating with a sign that read "The Malvinas are Argentine," which led to criticism from British officials.
