Fresh accusations that the 2026 FIFA World Cup is being “fixed” in Argentina’s favour have reignited debate across the football world, with Lionel Messi’s own explosive comments from the 2019 Copa America now resurfacing.
According to GiveMeSport, social media users have been sharing footage of Messi’s post-match interview from the 2019 Copa America, in which he accused South American football’s governing body of corruption and claimed the tournament was “fixed for Brazil.”
Argentina’s World Cup run sparks fresh controversy
The latest controversy follows Argentina’s dramatic Round of 16 victory over Egypt, a match that sparked furious protests from the Egyptian camp over several key refereeing decisions.
Egyptian players and officials alleged that the officiating favoured the reigning world champions, while scrutiny has also focused on an earlier group-stage incident in which Messi escaped a red card after a high challenge against Algeria.
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The growing criticism has placed additional pressure on FIFA president Gianni Infantino, particularly with Argentina preparing to face Switzerland in the quarter-finals. Infantino has already faced criticism after previously being reported to have said he “suffered” alongside Argentina during their win over Cape Verde.
Messi’s controversial comments from 2019
As highlighted by GiveMeSport, the renewed debate has brought back memories of Messi’s own accusations following the 2019 Copa America.
After Argentina defeated Chile to finish third, Messi received just the second red card of his professional career before launching a remarkable attack on CONMEBOL and its officials.
“They have showed us a lack of respect throughout this tournament,” Messi said.
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“Sadly, the corruption, the referees, they don’t allow people to enjoy football, they ruined it a bit. I think the cup is fixed for Brazil.”
He also added that he hoped referees and VAR would not influence the final between Brazil and Peru, although he admitted he believed it would be difficult for Peru to compete.
CONMEBOL strongly rejected the allegations
CONMEBOL quickly issued a statement dismissing Messi’s claims, insisting there was no basis for his accusations.
The governing body said the allegations were “unfounded,” adding that they questioned the integrity of the competition and showed a lack of respect towards the tournament, its participants and its officials.
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History repeating itself?
Now a two-time Copa América champion and 2022 World Cup winner, Messi once again finds himself at the centre of controversy—this time from the opposite perspective.
With accusations of favourable refereeing surrounding Argentina’s progress in the 2026 World Cup, many fans have pointed to the irony of Messi previously alleging that another major international tournament had been manipulated. As Argentina continue their campaign, the spotlight on FIFA and match officials is only expected to intensify.
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