Argentina President to skip final, citing match-day lucky ritual

Argentine President Javier Milei has said he will not travel to the United States for Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final, choosing instead to watch Argentina’s meeting with Spain from the presidential residence as part of what he describes as a lucky match-day routine.

Speaking to Argentine broadcaster El Observador Radio on Thursday, Milei said he had no plans to change the ritual he has followed throughout Argentina’s World Cup campaign.

He said there was “no possibility” of abandoning the routine before the country’s biggest match of the tournament, insisting he would remain at the presidential residence to watch the final.

The president also revealed another personal superstition that has accompanied him during Argentina’s run to the final.

He said he has worn the same thick jacket from the state-backed energy company YPF during every World Cup match.

According to Milei, the habit began during Argentina’s quarter-final victory over Switzerland. With cold weather and the heating switched off, he chose to wear the jacket to stay warm.

He recalled briefly removing it during the match, after which Argentina conceded a goal. Believing the timing was more than a coincidence, he put the jacket back on and has continued wearing it for every game since.

Argentina secured its place in the World Cup final after defeating England 2-1 in Wednesday’s semi-final, setting up a meeting with Spain in New Jersey.

While Milei will remain in Buenos Aires, several prominent international leaders are expected to attend the final in person. Spain’s King Felipe VI is due to be present, alongside United States President Donald Trump.

The World Cup final is expected to attract a global television audience as Argentina seek another world title against a Spain side aiming to lift football’s biggest prize.