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FIFA president Gianni Infantino has stirred debate after a leaked letter showed him praising Argentina’s "professionalism" during the 2026 World Cup. The remarks have emerged even though the governing body is at the same time investigating the Albiceleste for their chaotic behaviour after the final defeat to Spain, which ended in a 1-0 loss after extra time.

Infantino sends congratulatory message to Tapia

In an unexpected turn, a private letter from Infantino to Argentine FA president Claudio Tapia has now been made public. Even with the scenes of aggression that marked the end of the tournament in New York - where the 2022 champions failed to register a single shot on target in the final and turned their backs as Luis de la Fuente’s team lifted the trophy - the FIFA chief chose to highlight the positive influence of the South American giants. The letter, first reported by media outlets in Argentina and later confirmed by the Daily Mail, thanked the nation for helping create the tournament’s atmosphere and for its role in the event’s global success.

Infantino wrote: "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. 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."

Controversy over 'professionalism' claims

The most striking part of the letter is Infantino’s specific praise for the team’s conduct and work ethic, which sits in sharp contrast to the disciplinary action now under way. Argentina’s run was often clouded by accusations of gamesmanship and simulation, ending in a violent post-match clash after their extra-time defeat to Spain - an incident currently being investigated by FIFA, with Leandro Paredes attacking Eric Garcia in an altercation that also appeared to involve Nahuel Molina, Thiago Almada, and assistant coach Roberto Ayala. Even so, the FIFA president delivered a highly positive assessment of the silver medallists’ efforts across the competition.

The letter continued: "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."

Strains of anti-football and disciplinary probes

The praise for "professionalism" appears awkward alongside a string of incidents that have pushed FIFA to open a formal investigation into the squad’s conduct. In the final, Lionel Messi and his teammates were accused of using "anti-football" tactics in a match packed with controversy. In one notable moment, Messi tried to convince referee Slavko Vincic to send off Marc Cucurella after the Spanish defender covered his mouth while speaking - a gamesmanship tactic Argentina had previously used against Jude Bellingham in their semi-final win over England.

The Albiceleste’s behaviour throughout the knockout rounds also attracted heavy criticism from neutral observers and opponents alike. In their semi-final, the side was accused of repeated simulation intended to influence officials. In addition, Argentinian celebrities and players drew the anger of British dignitaries by celebrating with a political banner relating to the Falkland Islands.

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A promising future despite final heartbreak

Despite the controversies and the final defeat, Infantino ended his message by praising the base laid for Argentina’s future success, while also stressing his close personal relationship with Tapia ahead of the pending FIFA investigations: "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."