The aftermath of the 2026 World Cup final saw Spain celebrating their second global triumph, but it was Argentina’s controversial actions during the trophy lift that captured as much attention as the champions themselves. Following their defeat, Argentina’s players were heavily criticized for turning their backs as Spain hoisted the iconic trophy, an act widely labeled as “classless.”
Manchester United star Lisandro Martinez, who was named in FIFA’s 2026 World Cup Team of the Tournament, has now offered an explanation for his team’s conduct. The defender addressed the backlash, which included accusations of disrespect towards the newly crowned world champions.
Argentina’s controversial stance
As Ballon d’Or contender Rodri lifted the World Cup for Spain, nearly the entire Argentina squad stood with their backs to the ceremony. The only exception was 25-year-old Palmeiras striker Flaco Lopez, who made two substitute appearances during the tournament and remained facing the celebration.
The incident sparked immediate condemnation, with former England international Stuart Pearce expressing his dismay. “When Spain were about to lift their trophy, the Argentinians, to a man, all stood with their back to the trophy lift. That probably tells you a great deal, doesn’t it?” Pearce remarked, as reported by GiveMeSport.
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Argentina had already faced significant criticism throughout the 2026 tournament, with some observers casting them as villains due to perceived ‘dirty’ tactics and altercations following disappointing performances.
Martinez offers explanation and denies disrespect
Speaking to World Soccer Talk, Lisandro Martinez clarified that the team’s actions were not intended as a slight against Spain. He insisted that Argentina had shown respect to their opponents immediately after the final whistle.
“We were always very respectful of the opponent. It was also said that after the final, we hadn’t acknowledged Spain. We greeted all the players, all the coaching staff, we were there,” Martinez stated, refuting claims of outright disrespect.
The defender explained that the decision to turn their backs was, in fact, a gesture towards their own supporters. “And then obviously the image that you see where we are turning our backs is when we our people were singing to us, right? So, it was also a show of respect towards our people, staying there in the moment that we had to stay,” Martinez elaborated.
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Despite head coach Lionel Scaloni also asserting that his team meant no disrespect, the controversy has led to FIFA launching an investigation. The governing body will determine whether Argentina violated any of their disciplinary code following incidents after the final, which included altercations between players and a viral scuffle.
Spain’s Dani Olmo highlighted the importance of setting an example, stating, “We are an example for many generations, I think they should be too.” Martinez, meanwhile, expressed “mixed feelings” about the “hate” directed at his team, suggesting it says more about the critics than about Argentina’s players.
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