Superstition keeps Argentina’s president away from the FIFA World Cup final
Argentine President Javier Milei has decided not to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, saying he believes his presence at home is helping Argentina continue its winning run.
The World Cup final between Argentina and Spain will be played on Sunday at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. While United States President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino are expected to attend the match, Milei has made it clear that he will stay in Argentina.
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When reporters asked whether he would travel to New Jersey for the final, Milei gave a direct answer.
“Absolutely not. I will continue to watch all the matches from the Quinta de Olivos,” he said.
The Argentine leader explained that he has watched every match from his official residence, and each time Argentina has won. Because of this, he believes changing his routine could bring bad luck to the national team.
Also Read: Trump to attend the FIFA World Cup 2026 final: Will he also hand over the trophy?
Milei also plans to continue another personal tradition during the final. He will wear the same warm jacket that he wore while watching Argentina’s quarterfinal victory over Switzerland, a match that ended with a 3-1 score in Argentina’s favour.
Argentina secured its place in the World Cup final after defeating England 2-1 in the semi-final on July 15. England took the lead through Anthony Gordon in the 55th minute, but Argentina staged a dramatic comeback. Enzo Fernández equalised in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martínez scored the winning goal in stoppage time to send his team into the final.
Now, Argentina will face Spain in one of the biggest matches of the tournament, with millions of fans hoping the team can lift another World Cup trophy.
