Argentina captain Lionel Messi has dismissed claims that his national team has received favourable treatment from FIFA, insisting the team’s success has been earned through hard work and performances on the pitch.
According to a post by football outlet The Touchline on X on Thursday, July 16, 2026, Messi said Argentina’s achievements over the past four years are the result of consistency, quality, and determination rather than outside assistance.
“No. It’s insane what we’ve achieved. Five finals in a row, two World Cup finals in a row. We’ve been the best over the last four years,” Messi said.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner maintained that Argentina’s accomplishments have been fully deserved and rejected suggestions that the team has benefited from preferential treatment.
“Whoever it upsets, whatever they say, this team has shown that on the pitch, no one gives us anything for free,” he added.
Messi also praised the character and resilience of the Argentina squad, crediting their commitment and fighting spirit for the team’s continued success in major international tournaments.
“We played with pride, heart, with football. We completed a comeback. I’m happy and proud,” he said.
Argentina have reached multiple major international finals in recent years, cementing their status as one of world football’s dominant teams.
Messi’s comments come amid ongoing debate in some sections of the football community over Argentina’s success, with the captain insisting the team’s achievements have been earned on merit.
