Gianni Infantino, the president of the International Football Association (FIFA), apologized to Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni for a misunderstanding during the World Cup draw in Washington on Friday.
Scaloni, who guided Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title, was asked to put on gloves before holding the trophy – a request that displeased quite a few members of the Argentine contingent present at the venue.
A day later, Infantino apologized to the coach for the controversy before inviting Scaloni on stage.
«I am very sorry. On behalf of FIFA I apologize. The world champions can touch the trophy,» Infantino said, before allowing Scaloni to hold the trophy with his bare hands this time.
“I think they mistook me for someone else and didn’t let me touch it yesterday,” Scaloni replied with a smile.
The Albiceleste have been drawn against Algeria, Austria and Jordan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, opening their campaign against Algeria on June 16.
Under Scaloni, it won its first World Cup title in 36 years – the third for Argentina – in Qatar three years ago.
Published on December 6, 2025
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