Overview
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino said he was unaware Lionel Scaloni had been told to wear gloves to handle the trophy during Friday’s draw and apologized on behalf of the organization.
- Infantino called Scaloni back on stage at Saturday’s schedule event and had him lift the World Cup trophy without gloves as a corrective gesture.
- Scaloni said officials appeared not to recognize him during the draw, which led to the glove requirement despite the convention that champions may touch the trophy.
- The incident drew criticism across social media, with fans and pundits questioning FIFA’s event management and respect for the reigning champions’ coach.
- Argentina were placed in Group J with Algeria, Austria and Jordan and will open their 2026 campaign against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City.