Cristiano Ronaldo has appeared to endorse accusations of FIFA corruption by liking an Instagram post that called football’s governing body a “mafia-like” organisation, just days after his long-time rival Lionel Messi’s Argentina side lost a World Cup final marred by ugly brawls.
The Portugal forward, whose own team were knocked out in the round of 16 by eventual champions Spain, liked a video in which Spanish journalists Pilar Rodrigues Losantos and Ruben Amon labelled FIFA “one of the most corrupt institutions on the planet” and an “abject, mafia-like, and shameful organisation”. The post came amid scrutiny of refereeing decisions that some claimed favoured Argentina during the tournament.
“Cristiano Ronaldo liked an Instagram post calling FIFA 'corrupt' as Argentina face probe over World Cup final brawls.”
Argentina’s World Cup ended in acrimony after Sunday’s 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in New Jersey. Midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off late in normal time for two yellow cards, his second a challenge that sent Spain’s Pau Cubarsi cartwheeling through the air. After the final whistle, members of the Argentina team and backroom staff – including Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala – were involved in altercations with Spanish players. Paredes was seen pushing Spain’s Eric Garcia by the throat, while Ayala appeared to hold Garcia around the throat and strike Dani Olmo. Spain’s Gavi was forced to the ground by Almada.
Fifa’s disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess the trouble, and any player or coach involved could face suspension. The Argentine Football Association may also be fined.
Fernandez, the Chelsea midfielder who played in seven of Argentina’s eight matches, took to social media to defend his team but did not mention his red card. “As time goes by, you realise there is something much bigger than just a result,” he wrote. “For years, this group has represented the team in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up.”
Messi, who led Argentina to two consecutive World Cup finals, spoke of “immense pain” after the defeat. “This wound will take time to heal,” he said. “But I also hold onto all the good things… Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and message.” He also congratulated Spain.
Ronaldo, meanwhile, released his own statement after Portugal’s exit, calling it his last World Cup. “I gave it my all. I did my best,” he said. “It was my last World Cup, yes, but I’ll now have time to reflect and be with my family.” He made no mention of the FIFA allegations, but his Instagram like has added a layer of tension to a post-tournament period already dominated by disciplinary proceedings and unanswered questions about what happened in Argentina’s dressing room before kick-off.