Argentina's fury over Rodri's World Cup 2026 player award

Rodri was voted the best player of the World Cup 2026, with FIFA preferring the Spanish midfielder over Lionel Messi, prompting a wave of anger in Argentinië. Argentine outlets described the decision as "almost an insult" and questioned the award's sensibility.

The Spanish midfielder received the honour ahead of Lionel Messi, the Argentine legend, according to the FIFA announcement. This preference sparked immediate criticism from the Argentine media, which felt the choice ignored Messi's impact on the tournament.

Tyc Sports, an Argentine outlet, wrote: "It is almost an insult. It shows a total lack of feeling. Not because the Spaniard is a bad player, but simply because Messi is the soul of Argentina and the World Cup." The quote highlighted Messi's status as a 39‑year‑old phenomenon who illuminated stadiums worldwide.

Rodri can now call himself the tournament's best player, having helped Spain capture the world title. The victory allowed him to cross two more boxes off his personal trophy bingo, adding a World Cup win to his collection.

With this award, Rodri became the seventh player in history to have won a World Cup, a European Championship (EK), a Copa América, the Champions League and a Ballon d'Or. The elite group before him includes Gerd Müller, Franz Beckenbauer, Zinédine Zidane, Rivaldo, Ronaldinho and Lionel Messi.

A further Argentine commentary argued: "If the criterion is to reward winners, Gianni Infantino and his team should be told that football is won with goals, not passes. Rodri did not score a single goal in this World Cup and his many passes yielded no assists." The statement suggested a broader debate about award criteria.

The Argentine media continues to voice its displeasure, keeping the controversy alive as fans and pundits discuss the merits of the selection.