Will war-hit Qatar still host Argentina vs Spain Finalissima? UEFA responds

UEFA still plans for Qatar to host this month’s match between Argentina and Spain, known as Finalissima, even as the emirate is targeted by Iranian missiles in the widening Middle East war started by Israel and the United States.

“No alternative venues are being considered at this time,” UEFA said on Thursday of the scheduled March 27 match in Doha between the reigning champions of South America and Europe in a likely clash between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal.

“A final decision is expected at the end of next week,” said the European football body organizing the match with South American counterpart CONMEBOL.

Argentina and Spain will play at the Lusail Stadium, site of the epic 2022 World Cup final. Argentina won a penalty shootout against France after Messi scored twice and Kylian Mbappe got a hat track in a thrilling 3-3 draw.

Qatar maintains close relations with UEFA. Top football official Nasser Al-Khelaïfi, the president of Qatar-owned Paris Saint-Germain, is a member of UEFA’s executive committee.

“Discussions are ongoing with the local organizers who have made great efforts to make the competition a success,” UEFA said.

If Doha poses too much of a security risk to host the match, it could be moved to Spain or elsewhere in Europe, where almost all the players from the two sides are based.

The first Finalissima took place at Wembley Stadium in London in June 2022, where Argentina defeated Italy 3-0.

Published on March 5, 2026