The fallout from the chaotic World Cup final between Argentina and Spain in New York continues.
Gianni Infantino’s recent actions may not go down well with football fans (Image: Florencia Tan Jun, Getty Images)
Gianni Infantino wrote a swoon-inducing letter to the president of the Argentine Football Association, despite his fierce reaction to his defeat in the World Cup final. The letter was leaked in Argentina shortly after FIFA launched an investigation into the violence that followed Spain’s 1-0 win over the South American team.
The soccer world was shocked when Leandro Parades, Nahuel Molina and even Argentina assistant coach Roberto Ayala got into a scuffle with several Spanish players. FIFA issued a statement saying it was investigating Argentina’s “aggressive conduct and violation of the principles of fair play.”
Nevertheless, Infantino wrote a letter to Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association, appalled by the “professionalism” of the South Americans.
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The letter read: “Dear President, yesterday, Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the magnificent New Jersey Stadium in New York, Argentina won the silver medal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after an exciting final against Spain. I would like to once again extend my heartfelt congratulations on this important new result for Argentine football.”
“The 2026 FIFA World Cup will go down as an unforgettable celebration of football, marked by spectacular matches, new promises broken, the presence of some of the greatest names in the sport and an extraordinary atmosphere in stadiums packed with fans.
“Albiceleste’s outstanding performance also contributed decisively to making this tournament a special event that attracted millions of football lovers around the world.
Infantino wrote a letter to Claudio Tapia (right) (Image: Chris Brunskill/Fantasista, Getty Images)
“I would like to congratulate everyone who contributed to this great result, the players, coach Lionel Scaloni, the coaching and medical staff, and of course the many fans who supported and encouraged the team throughout the tournament.”
“These victories are always the result of tireless effort, professionalism and attention to detail, but also of passion, dedication and love for this great sport. All this portends a very promising future and will undoubtedly pave the way for another great success for Argentine football.”
“Dear President, I wish you all the best in your next congress. I hope to see you again soon. Gianni Infantino, with all my friendship.”
Infantino’s letter will not resonate with football fans (Image: Justin Setterfield, Getty Images)
FIFA has not yet ruled on whether Argentina’s players will be sanctioned for the post-match disturbance. In a statement released shortly after the final whistle, FIFA said: “Following an evaluation of the relevant match report for the FIFA World Cup Final, Spain vs. Argentina, the FIFA Disciplinary Commission has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate possible violations of the FDC in relation to post-match incidents, pursuant to article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC).”
“Further details will be provided by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the prosecutor’s report is complete.”
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