FIFA face World Cup corruption claims amid resurfaced Messi quotes
FIFA is facing mounting accusations that the 2026 World Cup is being rigged in favour of Argentina following their controversial last-16 victory over Egypt.
Conspiracies have intensified after Egyptian players publicly questioned the officiating during their narrow defeat to the defending champions.
The controversy follows another incident where the South American captain avoided a red card for a high challenge against Algeria in the group stages.
Infantino under the spotlight
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has already drawn criticism for admitting he suffered alongside the reigning champions during their victory against Cape Verde.
Further favourable refereeing decisions in their upcoming quarter-final against Switzerland will only increase the scrutiny on football’s global governing body.
The current storm surrounding the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner mirrors a similar controversy from the 2019 Copa America.
Resurfaced corruption claims
Footage has re-emerged on social media showing the former Barcelona forward making explosive allegations after a third-place playoff against Chile.
The talismanic forward was shown only the second red card of his career during that fixture and subsequently refused to collect his medal.
He famously launched a scathing attack on CONMEBOL officials, accusing them of orchestrating the tournament to ensure a Brazilian triumph.
“We don’t have to be part of this corruption.”
The legendary attacker explicitly suggested the competition was fixed and claimed referees were preventing fans from enjoying the sport.
“Sadly, the corruption, the referees, they don’t allow people to enjoy football, they ruined it a bit.”
CONMEBOL’s firm denial
The South American governing body swiftly rejected those historic allegations, releasing a strongly worded statement defending the integrity of the tournament.
They described the comments as a clear lack of respect for the competition and its participating professionals.
At the time of that outburst, the Rosario-born star had yet to secure a major international trophy.
He has since silenced his critics by leading his nation to consecutive Copa America titles and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.