New York: The FIFA World Cup 2026 final in New York featuring a high voltage clash between Spain and Argentina has set the stage for an intriguing mix of global politics and sports superstition. The high profile event has placed US President Donald Trump in a peculiar diplomatic position as he prepares to host a political rival while his closest ideological ally stays away due to football superstitions.
During the much anticipated final, President Trump will officially host Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez. The political dynamics between the two leaders are widely known to be contrasting, making this hosting duty a rather uneasy affair for Trump. However, diplomatic protocols require the US President to extend hospitality to the visiting Spanish leader at this grand sporting spectacle.
Adding a surprising twist to the diplomatic scene is the glaring absence of Argentine President Javier Milei. Widely considered a staunch supporter and close friend of Trump, Milei has firmly refused to travel to New York for the historic match. Interestingly, his absence is not driven by any official diplomatic engagements but by a deep rooted Argentine football superstition locally known as Cabalas.
Milei strongly believes that altering his match viewing routine by attending the final in person could break the winning streak and jinx the Argentine national team. Speaking to local radio station El Observador, the Argentine President clearly stated his stance. “No way I will not change this rule at any cost. I will continue watching all the matches from Olivos,” Milei affirmed. He also shared a personal anecdote about a lucky jacket that he strictly wears during matches, refusing to take it off to maintain the good fortune of his team.
This strong belief in football superstitions is not new among Argentine heads of state. The tradition traces back to the 1990 World Cup when former President Carlos Menem travelled to the stadium to support the national team. Unfortunately, Argentina suffered a shocking defeat against Cameroon in their opening match. Since then, Argentine leaders have been particularly cautious about breaking their Cabalas.
As Spain and Argentina battle for ultimate football glory, the VIP stands will undoubtedly reflect this fascinating intersection of global diplomacy and deeply held sporting superstitions.