Argentina president Javier Milei has claimed Brazil, Mexico and the US Democratic Party helped fund an anti Argentina campaign during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. However, he did not provide any evidence to support the allegations.
According to sports website GiveMeSport, Milei made the remarks during an interview with Argentine radio station Radio Mitre. His comments came after Argentina faced heavy criticism throughout the tournament.
The controversy began after Argentina’s semi-final win over England. Several players were seen displaying a banner linked to the Falkland Islands, known in Argentina as the Malvinas.
Another flashpoint followed the World Cup final against Spain. Leandro Paredes, Nicolas Otamendi, Nahuel Molina and assistant coach Roberto Ayala became involved in a heated exchange with several Spanish players after the final whistle.
The incidents quickly spread across social media. Critics accused Argentina of racism, while others claimed Lionel Messi’s side had received favourable decisions during the competition.
Milei insisted those reactions were not spontaneous. Instead, he claimed they were part of a coordinated campaign against Argentina.
“Who invested the most money in this anti Argentina campaign? The Brazilian government,” Milei said.
“Twenty five per cent of the funding came from the Brazilian government. They are the same people who lecture me about interference.”
The Argentine president then widened his allegations by naming two more political groups.
“This campaign was mainly financed by Mexico and the Democratic Party in the United States,” he said.
“Who are they? They are progressive leaders who do not want the idea of freedom to succeed.”
Despite making the claims, Milei did not produce any documents or evidence to back them up.
The Argentine leader was also absent from the World Cup final. US president Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino both attended the match at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, but Milei stayed in Buenos Aires.
He watched the final from the presidential residence in Olivos rather than travelling to the United States.
Before the match, Milei had already ruled out attending in person.
“Absolutely not,” he said when asked if he would travel.
“I will continue watching every game from Olivos.”
His comments are expected to add fresh political tension to the debate surrounding Argentina’s World Cup campaign. The tournament was already marked by on-field controversy, diplomatic sensitivity and fierce discussion across social media.
