Gianni Infantino wrote a swooning letter to the Argentinian Football Association praising their “professionalism” just days after their players brawled with Spain following the World Cup final – a match that also left manager Lionel Scaloni in tears over his future.
The leaked letter, addressed to Argentina FA president Claudio Tapia, came as FIFA investigates “offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play” by the South Americans after Sunday’s 1-0 defeat in New York. The violence shocked the football world, with Leandro Parades, Nahuel Molina and even assistant coach Roberto Ayala involved in a fracas with Spanish players.
“FIFA president Infantino praised Argentina's 'professionalism' in leaked letter despite World Cup final violence and Scaloni tears”
Despite the brawl, Infantino wrote: “Yesterday, Sunday, July 19, 2026, at the magnificent New York New Jersey Stadium, Argentina won the silver medal … I would like to reiterate my most sincere congratulations for this important new result.” The letter praised the “constant work, professionalism and attention to detail” of the squad, adding that “all this augurs a very promising future”.
The Argentines had just lost a tense final, and manager Lionel Scaloni broke down in his post-match press conference when asked about his future, leaving the room in tears. The emotional scene capped a day that saw the Albiceleste come second on the pitch – and face a disciplinary inquiry off it.
FIFA has yet to reach a verdict on whether any sanctions will be imposed on the players or staff involved in the clashes.
