Why Argentina’s President is refusing to attend the World Cup Final against Spain

Buenos Aires: Argentine President Javier Milei has confirmed he will not attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, opting instead to watch the decisive clash between Argentina and Spain from his presidential residence, the Quinta de Olivos.

Milei stated that his decision is driven by superstition, or cábala—a practice deeply ingrained in Argentine football culture where fans and officials stick to specific rituals to bring the national team good fortune. Having watched every match of Argentina’s tournament run from his home, the President indicated he has no intention of breaking the routine for the final.

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“I’m going to keep watching all the games from Olivos, just like on the first day,” Milei told the Buenos Aires radio station El Observador. When asked explicitly if his absence was due to superstition, he replied, “Yes”.

In addition to his location, the President revealed another specific ritual involving his choice of attire. Throughout the tournament, he has consistently worn a thick, oil company-branded jacket during matches.

“Since it’s cold and I don’t turn on the heat, I wear an oil company-branded jacket,” Milei explained. “The day of the Switzerland game, it made me really hot. I took it off, and they scored a goal against us. I put it back on and never took it off again”.

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Despite reports that he was widely expected to join other world leaders—including US President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino—at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Milei dismissed the possibility, stating there was “no way” he would abandon his good-luck routine.

The Argentine leader has also offered the use of the Casa Rosada for the national team’s celebrations should they successfully defend their world title on Sunday (Monday, 12:30 am IST).