Argentine President Announces National Holiday Even Though He Lost to Spain in the 2026 World Cup Final

JAKARTA - The President of Argentina, Javier Milei, has announced that there will be a national holiday to celebrate the Albiceleste's journey at the 2026 World Cup on the day chosen by the team.

Despite losing in the final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, local time, with a score of 0-1 in extra time, the Argentine players and staff will still be celebrated.

"The 2026 World Cup. Given the concerns regarding the celebration to mark the achievement of the Argentine National Team, I would like to inform the public that, depending on the decision reached by the players and the coaching staff regarding the date of the celebration, that day will be declared a national holiday," wrote Milei, who did not attend the final match in New Jersey for superstitious reasons, on X.

The Argentine Football Federation (AFA) confirmed that some of the delegation flew back to Buenos Aires on Monday, July 21, 2026, local time in the afternoon, while some players are not returning home at this time.

"After the final, several players from the squad immediately departed from the United States for various destinations to rejoin their clubs or begin their holidays."

"Meanwhile, some of the delegation - which consists of players, coaching staff, and other staff members - returned to Argentina on Monday," said the AFA statement.

Argentina are attempting to become the first two-time World Cup champions since Pele's Brazil did so at the 1958 and 1962 editions, but failed.

Spain's substitute Ferran Torres broke the deadlock in the 106th minute with a close-range shot to give La Roja their second World Cup title.

Spain dominated the match and had many chances to score before the end of normal time.

Argentina, who played with 10 men from the 93rd minute after Enzo Fernandez was sent off, only had their first chance in the 117th minute when Lionel Messi's effort was blocked.

Milei praised the Argentine players for their efforts.

"Thank you very much, the players!!! Fight to the end. Argentina always holds high," Milei wrote on X.