Argentina President Javier Milei will not attend the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium alongside US President Donald Trump, citing personal superstitions that have guided him throughout the tournament. Milei, who assumed office in December 2023, has watched all seven of Argentina's victories from his presidential residence in Buenos Aires and plans to continue that habit for the final against Spain.
When asked about traveling to New Jersey for the match, Milei replied simply: "No way." He believes changing his routine could jeopardize Argentina's chances of winning back-to-back World Cups. Milei also intends to wear the same oil company-branded jacket he has worn for much of the tournament, after a specific incident reinforced his superstitious behavior.
The Jacket Incident
Milei explained, via ESPN: "Since it's cold and I don't turn on the heat, I wear an oil company-branded jacket. The day of the Switzerland game, it made me really hot. I took it off, and they scored a goal against us. I put it back on and never took it off again." This adherence to ritual is common among Argentine presidents and fans alike.
Historical Precedent
Milei's avoidance of live matches follows a tradition set by previous Argentine leaders. In 1990, then-president Carlos Menem visited the squad before they suffered a shocking opening defeat to Cameroon. Since then, no Argentine president has attended a World Cup match. Supporters across the country also practice "cabalas"—personal superstitions aimed at boosting the team or bringing misfortune to rivals.
Milei-Trump Relationship
Despite skipping the event, Milei shares a close bond with Trump, who has called him his "favorite president." Milei has mirrored Trump's political style, adopting the motto "Make Argentina Great Again." In October 2025, Trump tied a $20 billion (£14.9 billion) currency swap to Milei's electoral victory, providing a lifeline to Argentina's economy. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that Argentina has since fully repaid the swap.
The World Cup final will see Trump, Spain's King Felipe IV, and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in attendance, but Milei will remain in Buenos Aires, hoping his superstitions lead to victory.
