As the 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches its climax with a final between Spain and Argentina in New Jersey on Sunday, a notable sentiment has emerged among French football fans: many are openly rooting for Spain. This preference, expressed by numerous supporters contacted by franceinfo, is driven less by admiration for the Spanish team and more by a deep-seated distrust of Argentina, the reigning champions.
The final, set to take place at MetLife Stadium, pits two footballing powerhouses against each other. Argentina, led by the legendary Lionel Messi, seeks to defend their 2022 title, while Spain aims to reclaim the trophy they won in 2010. For French fans, still smarting from their own team's elimination earlier in the tournament, the choice of whom to support has become a topic of heated discussion.
«It's not possible to support Argentina,» one fan told franceinfo, echoing a common refrain. «Their style of play, the way they celebrate, the controversies around the team — it's hard to get behind them.» Another supporter added, «I'd rather see Spain win. They play beautiful football, and they don't have the same baggage.»
The distrust of Argentina among French fans is multifaceted. Some point to what they perceive as unsportsmanlike behavior on the pitch, including time-wasting and aggressive tactics. Others cite the team's perceived arrogance, particularly after their dramatic victory over France in the 2022 final, which was marred by controversy over penalty decisions and celebrations that some French fans found disrespectful.
This sentiment has been amplified by a series of refereeing decisions during the 2026 tournament that have seemingly favored Argentina. Several fans and commentators have accused FIFA of bias, with some even suggesting that the governing body is keen to see Messi win another World Cup. «It feels like the referees are protecting them,» one fan said. «Every 50-50 call goes their way. It's not fair.»
Despite these grievances, not all French fans are opposed to Argentina. Some acknowledge the brilliance of Messi and the team's tactical prowess. «You have to respect what they've achieved,» one supporter said. «Messi is the greatest of all time, and it's a privilege to watch him play.» However, these voices are in the minority among those surveyed.
The Spanish team, by contrast, enjoys a more favorable reputation among French fans. Known for their possession-based «tiki-taka» style, Spain is admired for their technical skill and sportsmanship. «Spain plays the right way,» one fan said. «They don't rely on theatrics or gamesmanship. They just play football.» This admiration is tempered, however, by the fact that Spain is a traditional rival of France, and some fans struggle to fully embrace them.
The final itself promises to be a thrilling encounter. Argentina's midfield, anchored by Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernandez, Alexis Mac Allister, and Leandro Paredes, will look to control the game and supply Messi with opportunities. Spain, meanwhile, will rely on their youthful energy and tactical discipline to break down the Argentine defense. The match will be officiated by Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic, whose appointment has already sparked debate given his history of controversial decisions.
For French fans, the final represents a chance to see their rivals defeated, even if it means supporting another rival. «I never thought I'd cheer for Spain, but here we are,» one fan said. «Anything to see Argentina lose.» This sentiment captures the complex emotions of a fanbase still processing their own team's exit, now forced to choose between two foreign giants.
As the world watches, the final will not only determine the next world champion but also test the loyalties of millions of fans. For the French, the choice is clear: Spain is the lesser of two evils. Whether this translates into a Spanish victory remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — the passion and rivalry of international football are alive and well.
