The Argentina Out campaign gathered 23 million 316 thousand 108 signatures in less than a week, according to its organizers, following Argentina’s defeat in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain. The team’s last result was Spain 1-0 Argentina on July 19, 2026.

What sparked the petition against Argentina?

The initiative, launched during the 2026 World Cup, accused FIFA and referees of bias toward Lionel Messi and the national team. These claims, spread mainly on social media, remain unverified. The campaign gained traction after controversies in the knockout rounds, especially after the final loss to Spain.

Post-match incidents included clashes between players and coaching staff from both teams. Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina and assistant Roberto Ayala were involved in the altercations. FIFA opened a separate disciplinary investigation into Argentina’s delegation conduct, but this process is unrelated to the petition.

Were the 23 million signatures verified?

The figure was released by Argentina Out organizers, but no independent audit has confirmed the signatures’ authenticity. Outlets like UOL noted the total went unaudited. The page closed the campaign after Argentina’s defeat with a message: FIFA ignored us, but Spain delivered. Thank you, Spain.

The context after the controversial final

Tensions rose over Argentina’s celebration after the semifinal against England, where a banner reading Las Malvinas son argentinas appeared. Spain manager Luis de la Fuente called Argentina’s conduct intolerable and unacceptable. FIFA is investigating these events, but the petition carries no binding power over its decisions.

Argentina closed the 2026 World Cup with recent form of 4 wins, 0 draws and 1 loss in its last five matches (LWWWW).