Polish referee Szymon Marciniak lifts Algeria defender Aissa Mandi as he reacts in pain next to Argentina forward Lionel Messi during the first round of matches of the 2026 World Cup. Messi was not penalised for a clear foul that could have easily seen another player sent packing.
The suggestion that FIFA wants Lionel Messi to win another World Cup has become one of the loudest debates surrounding this tournament, but it is also one that misses the bigger issue.
There is no evidence to suggest that FIFA is manufacturing an Argentina victory or attempting to hand Messi another major international title.
The Argentine captain’s place in football history was secured long before this tournament, and his achievements do not require external assistance to validate them.
The real concern surrounding this World Cup is not Messi, but the growing frustration around officiating standards and the way VAR decisions are being interpreted.
