Argentina’s President, Javier Milei, says he will not attend Sunday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain in the United States, choosing instead to watch the match from home to maintain what he considers a lucky tradition.
Speaking to El Observador radio on Thursday, Milei said he would “under no circumstances” break the ritual of watching Argentina’s World Cup matches from the presidential residence, a routine he believes has brought the team good fortune throughout the tournament.
The president also revealed another personal superstition—wearing a thick jacket from state-owned oil company YPF during every Argentina match.
According to Milei, he first wore the jacket during Argentina’s 3-1 quarter-final victory over Switzerland after refusing to switch on the heating because of the cold.
“When I took it off, we conceded a goal, so I put it back on and haven’t taken it off since,” he said.
Argentina booked their place in the World Cup final after defeating England 2-1 in Wednesday’s semi-final and will face Spain on Sunday in New Jersey.
While Milei will watch from Argentina, Spain’s King Felipe VI and United States President Donald Trump are expected to attend the final.
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