- The 2026 Finalissima match between Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Spain has been cancelled after co-organisers Uefa and Conmebol failed to find an alternative venue to Qatar.
- The game, featuring the champions of South America and Europe, was originally scheduled for 27 March in Qatar but was deemed unsuitable due to conflict in the Middle East.
- Uefa proposed several alternatives, including playing at Real Madrid’s Bernabeu stadium, a two-leg fixture, or a neutral European ground.
- Argentina rejected all of Uefa's proposals, also stating a preference to play after the summer’s World Cup, which was not feasible for Spain, and an “unworkable” date of 31 March.
- Uefa expressed “great disappointment” that an alternative venue could not be found, despite strong determination to save the fixture and efforts from Real Madrid and Qatari authorities.
IN FULL
Finalissima between Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Spain cancelled