FILE. Former Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart has slammed FIFA for alleged tournament bias, claiming Argentina and Lionel Messi received preferential treatment during the 2026 World Cup. Picture: CRISTINA QUICLER / AFP
Even though they did not ultimately win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentina were the preferred champions for FIFA, according to former Dutch international Rafael van der Vaart.
“It looks as though FIFA have preferences on who wins the World Cup. In the beginning, I couldn't believe what I saw with Donald Trump and the red card situation,” said Van der Vaart, referring to the controversial lifting of USA striker Folarin Balogun’s one-match ban, which allowed him to play in the Round of 16 clash against Belgium.
However, Van der Vaart argues that was just one example of the blatant bias FIFA displayed throughout the tournament. The former midfielder went on to explain why it felt like Argentina were given “outside assistance” in their bid to defend their title.
“Slowly, I am getting this feeling… You know, also the goal that was disallowed against Argentina when Egypt scored… Then I think, in a way, it looks like they [FIFA] have their preferences, and I don't like that at all,” Van der Vaart said.
