Argentina has faced criticism over its conduct during the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy presentation ceremony after losing the final to Spain, with some commentators accusing the team of showing poor sportsmanship.
The controversy emerged after reports claimed Argentina’s players turned away while Spain celebrated their second World Cup triumph. The final between Spain and Argentina at the New York-New Jersey Stadium ended in disappointment for the defending champions, as Ferran Torres scored during extra time to secure a 1-0 victory for Spain.
The closely fought contest remained goalless for 90 minutes before Spain found the breakthrough in the additional period. Argentina’s players appeared visibly devastated after the defeat, with captain Lionel Messi seen emotional following the final whistle. However, the team’s actions during the closing ceremony attracted criticism, with some observers describing their response as “classless” and an “embarrassment”. According to reports, Argentina’s squad moved away from the presentation area as Spain prepared to lift the trophy.
Spain’s players had formed a guard of honour for Messi and his teammates as they collected their runners-up medals, but Argentina did not reportedly return the gesture during Spain’s moment of celebration. The ceremony came after a tense ending to the match, which was followed by heated exchanges between players from both sides. Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was involved in an altercation with Spain players Eric Garcia and Gavi after the final whistle, adding to the frustration surrounding the defeat.
Spain captain Rodri was also at the centre of attention after receiving the Golden Ball award for being the tournament’s best player. During the presentation, some Argentine supporters reportedly chanted Messi’s name as Rodri accepted the individual honour. The reaction has sparked debate among football fans and former players over how teams should respond after major defeats.
While critics argued that Argentina should have shown greater respect during Spain’s celebrations, others pointed to the intense emotions involved after losing a World Cup final. For Argentina, the defeat ended their hopes of becoming the first team since 1962 to win back-to-back World Cup titles. The team entered the tournament as defending champions after their 2022 triumph in Qatar but struggled to overcome a dominant Spain side in the final.
Spain, meanwhile, completed a historic campaign by securing their second World Cup title. Their victory was built on a strong defensive record and controlled performances throughout the tournament, with Rodri leading the team’s midfield and Ferran Torres providing the decisive moment in the final. The controversy surrounding the trophy ceremony is now set to become another talking point from a dramatic World Cup final, where Spain’s historic achievement was overshadowed by the debate over Argentina’s post-match actions.