President of Argentina misses World Cup final due to superstition —
According to Vi.
Context
Lionel Scaloni, Argentina's coach, has been instrumental in leading the team to the 2026 World Cup final. Under his guidance, the team has demonstrated a solid and cohesive game, which increases expectations for the clash against Spain. Scaloni's strategic approach will be crucial in trying to secure victory and the much-desired trophy.
Why this matters
The absence of Javier Milei in the 2026 World Cup final is significant, as it reflects the superstition that the president maintains regarding the performance of the Argentine team. His decision to watch the game at home, rather than attend the VIP event, highlights the importance he places on his personal beliefs during such a crucial tournament, where Argentina face Spain.
Main conclusions
- President of Argentina misses World Cup final due to superstition —.
- Milei refuses to attend the Argentina-Spain final out of superstition and maintains a routine at home after being invited to the VIP tribune with Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump.
- President van Argentinië slaat WK-finale over.
Javier Milei, president of Argentina, will be largely absent among the dignitaries at the 2026 World Cup final. Argentina will face Spain this Sunday, in New Jersey, but the Argentine head of state decided to maintain his superstitious routines and watch the match from home.
As revealed to the Argentine radio El Observador, Milei was invited to follow the game in a VIP stand alongside the president of FIFA, Gianni Infantino, and the president of the United States, Donald Trump. When asked about the possibility of traveling, he was adamant: “Absolutely not.” The decision has nothing to do with a lack of interest in football or the logistics of travel, but rather with the “cabalas” that the Argentine leader has followed since the start of the tournament.
The president himself shared an example that, he says, reinforced his ritual. Because of the cold and because he didn't turn on the heating at home, he started wearing a jacket with the logo of an oil company. On the day of the game against Switzerland, he felt too hot and took off his coat — shortly after, Argentina conceded a goal. Milei put it back on and, she says, hasn't taken it off since.
Throughout the World Cup, the president chose to watch the team's matches at home, where he followed the team coached by Lionel Scaloni's journey to the final. Faithful to the routine that he considers auspicious, Milei will maintain the plan for the final against Spain — most likely with the same jacket.
The head of state's option contrasts with the tradition of major World Cup finals, usually marked by the presence of top political and sports leaders in the stadium stands. Still, superstition is deeply rooted in the Argentine football imagination, where the so-called “cabalas” are often followed by fans and public figures in decisive phases.
The final in New Jersey ends a World Cup played in the United States, Mexico and Canada, and puts two international football powers face to face. On the Argentine side, Scaloni has led the team with pragmatism and solidity throughout the competition; On the Spanish side, the current generation arrives at the biggest game with the ambition of lifting the trophy.
On a stage that will feature renowned personalities from football and world politics, Milei's absence draws attention, but is, according to him, serving a single objective: not to break the ritual that, he believes, has accompanied the team until the final stage of the tournament.
What happens next
With the final between Argentina and Spain taking place, expectations are high regarding the performance of the team led by Lionel Scaloni. Milei's decision not to attend could spark discussions about the influence of superstitions in sport, especially in decisive moments like this. Argentina hopes to win the title, and Milei's presence, even if virtual, will be felt among the fans.
Frequently asked questions
What happened to Javier Milei in the World Cup final?
Javier Milei, president of Argentina, decided not to attend the 2026 World Cup final and watch the game from home due to his superstitious routines.
Who confirmed Milei's absence from the final?
Javier Milei's absence was confirmed by himself in an interview with Argentine radio station El Observador.
Why did Milei decide to stay at home?
Milei decided to stay at home to maintain his superstitious 'cabalas', which he believes are responsible for Argentina's success in the tournament.
What changes did Milei make to her routine during the World Cup?
Milei started wearing a jacket with the logo of an oil company and didn't
took it since Argentina started winning, believing that it brings luck.
How does Milei's decision contrast with the tradition in World Cup finals?
Milei's decision not to attend the final contrasts with the tradition of major World Cup finals, which are generally marked by the presence of top political and sports leaders in the stadium stands.