FIFA President Gianni Infantino has shamelessly praised Argentina’s ‘professionalism’ in a tone-deaf letter to the nation’s FA – despite launching an investigation into their behaviour after losing the World Cup final against Spain.
While congratulatory letters are customary after the World Cup, with all three medal-winning nations receiving one from Infantino, his choice of words is questionable.
In the letter – first leaked by the Argentine media and since verified by Daily Mail Sport – sent to the President of the Argentine FA, Claudio Tapia, Infantino thanked Argentina for their impact on a successful World Cup and applauded their professionalism.
‘Dear Mr. President, Yesterday, Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the magnificent New York New Jersey Stadium, Argentina won the silver medal of the FIFA World Cup 2026, after an exciting final against Spain,’ Infantino said.
‘I would like to reiterate my most sincere congratulations for this important new result for Argentine soccer.
‘The FIFA World Cup 2026 will remain in memory as an unforgettable celebration of football, marked by spectacular matches, the irruption of new promises, the presence of the great figures of the sport and the extraordinary atmosphere lived in stadiums full of fans.
Gianni Infantino handed Lionel Messi his silver medal alongside President Trump
Infantino watched the World Cup semi-final alongside Argentine FA Claudio Tapia
The Argentina squad turned their back as Spain lifted the World Cup trophy
‘The magnificent performance of the Albiceleste also contributed decisively to making this edition an exceptional event that captivated millions of football enthusiasts around the world.
‘Please send my sincere congratulations to all who have contributed to this magnificent result: to the players, to coach Lionel Scaloni, as well as to the coaching and medical staff and, of course, to the many fans who have accompanied and encouraged the team throughout the competition.
‘These victories are always the fruit of constant work, professionalism and attention to detail, but also of passion, commitment and love for this wonderful sport. All this augurs a very promising future and, without a doubt, will pave the way for new and great successes for Argentine football.
‘I wish you, dear Mr. President, all the best for the next competitions and I hope to see you again very soon. With all my friendship, Gianni Infantino.’
Argentina, who lost in extra-time in the final, frustrated opponents throughout the tournament with their anti-football style of play.
The 2022 winners failed to register a single shot on target in the final and following the defeat, they turned their backs as Luis de la Fuente’s side lifted the trophy.
Leonardo Paredes attacked Eric Garcia in a post-match fracas that also appeared to involve Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala – an incident FIFA are investigating.
The final itself was packed with controversy. Lionel Messi attempted to con referee Slavko Vincic into sending Marc Cucurella off after the Spain defender covered his mouth while speaking to the official. Argentina had attempted a similar tactic on Jude Bellingham during their semi-final against England.
In that semi-final victory, Argentina were also guilty of frequent simulation and gamesmanship in a provocative display.
They also drew complaints from British dignitaries after celebrating with a banner reading ‘Las Malvinas son Argentinas’, which translates as ‘The Falklands are Argentine’.
