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Gianni Infantino is at the center of controversy after thousands of fans accused the FIFA president of favoring the Argentine national team and its main star, Lionel Messi. On social media, people began compiling images, videos, and moments that they claim demonstrate alleged preferential treatment by Infantino toward the 'Albiceleste,' with the goal of ensuring they reach the 2026 World Cup final and become back-to-back champions.
For a few weeks now, speculation has been growing regarding Infantino's supposed favoritism toward Argentina, as internet users noted that the team's path in the World Cup 'was very easy,' since they wouldn't face powerhouses like England or Norway until the semifinal stage.
The controversy grew after the round of 16 match between Argentina and Egypt, as fans pointed out that a nonexistent penalty was awarded to Argentina; that red cards were forgiven for Nahuel Molina and Cuti Romero; that a foul on Mohamed Salah was not called; and that a goal by Egypt was unfairly disallowed.
According to internet users, Infantino may have had a hand in these decisions, as they believe the referees' work ultimately influenced the outcome of the match.
¿Por qué acusan a Gianni Infantino de favorecer a Messi y Argentina?
This is mainly due to the president's statements in which he has repeatedly highlighted Messi's role. Recently, in an interview with the media outlet SPORTS 2, Infantino said that the Argentine national team's number 10 'is playing exceptionally well,' a comment that generated even more criticism, especially when he hinted that he 'suffered' during the match.
Furthermore, fans believe that during 'Albiceleste' matches, referees tend to favor the team coached by Lionel Scaloni.
¿Cuáles son los momentos que más se han hecho virales?
Elogios públicos hacia Lionel Messi
Infantino has described Messi on various occasions as one of the greatest footballers of all time.
Las decisiones arbitrales
After several of Argentina's matches, users returned to debate controversial officiating decisions, although there is no evidence linking those plays to instructions from FIFA or Gianni Infantino.
El camino de Argentina en el Mundial
Some fans maintain that the knockout bracket turned out to be favorable for the Albiceleste.
¿Qué dice la FIFA?
FIFA has defended the independence of its sporting and officiating processes on various occasions. The organization maintains that referee assignments, the schedule, and the organization of the tournament follow criteria previously established in the competition's regulations.
[Publicidad]