The Argentine squad faced intense scrutiny throughout the tournament, with critics questioning their conduct on the pitch and accusing them of receiving preferential treatment. Even after Egypt’s early exit, national team coach Hossam Hassan suggested the Albiceleste benefited from undue influence from football’s governing body.

Days after Argentina’s narrow final defeat to Spain (1-0 a.e.t.), FIFA President Gianni Infantino took a different approach. He personally penned a congratulatory letter to Claudio Tapia, President of the Argentine Football Association (AFA), praising the team’s journey across the United States.

“I wish to reaffirm my heartfelt congratulations on this significant achievement for Argentine football,” Infantino wrote in the correspondence made public by the AFA. “The 2026 World Cup will be remembered as an unforgettable celebration of football (…) The Albiceleste’s outstanding performances played a pivotal role in making this edition a truly remarkable event that captivated millions of fans worldwide,” the FIFA chief added.

Infantino envisions “bright future” for Argentine football

“Please extend my sincerest congratulations to everyone who contributed to this magnificent result: the players, coach Lionel Scaloni, the technical and medical staff, and of course the passionate supporters who stood by the team throughout the competition. Such victories are always the product of hard work, professionalism, meticulous attention to detail, and above all, passion, dedication and love for this beautiful game. This bodes extremely well for the future and will undoubtedly pave the way for further great successes in Argentine football,” concluded the world football governing body’s top official.

While showering praise on Argentina, Infantino also wished Claudio Tapia “the very best for upcoming competitions” and expressed his eagerness to “see you very soon.” Curiously, no similar correspondence has been reported from FIFA to the Spanish, English or French football associations, despite all three nations reaching the tournament’s final stages.