FIFA letter to Argentina leaked with astonishing Gianni Infantino claim

The letter, leaked by Argentine media, was sent to Argentine Football Association president Claudio Tapia. Lionel Scaloni's side, for whom Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister played a prominent role, finished runners up at the tournament, beaten in the final by Spain.

Ferran Torres scored the only goal of the game in extra-time, before the football world was left shocked by the immediate aftermath as the likes of Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada, Nahuel Molina and assistant coach Roberto Ayala attacked Spanish players. Argentina players also turned their backs as Spain lifted the World Cup trophy after the medal ceremony.

FIFA issued a statement saying they were investigating "offensive behaviour and violations of the principles of fair play" in the Argentines. With that post-match melee still being investigated, the emergence of Infantino's letter comes at an awkward time for FIFA. As is customary, Infantino wrote to the three medal-winning nations.

But his letter to Tapia, swooning over the "professionalism" of the South Americans has raised eyebrows, particularly given the Albiceleste's conduct throughout the tournament and the ongoing disciplinary proceedings.

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In the letter, Infantino congratulated Argentina on winning the silver medal and praised the team's contribution to what he described as an "unforgettable celebration of football".

The letter read: "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.

"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."

FIFA has yet to announce the outcome of its disciplinary investigation, with potential sanctions against those involved still to be determined.

In a statement released shortly after the final whistle, FIFA said: "Following an assessment of the relevant match reports for the FIFA World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, and in line with article 36 of the FIFA Disciplinary Code (FDC), the FIFA Disciplinary Committee has appointed a Disciplinary and Ethics Prosecutor to investigate potential breaches of the FDC with regard to the post-match incidents.

"Further details will be communicated by the FIFA Disciplinary Committee once the prosecutor's report has been completed."