The Argentine national team returned to Buenos Aires this evening following the 1-0 defeat against Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, with hundreds of fans waiting near Ezeiza international airport. The Aerolíneas Argentinas flight carrying the delegation led by head coach Lionel Scaloni landed shortly after 6 p.m. local time, greeted by a formal ceremony and an extensive security operation set up by the authorities. On the tarmac, the word "Gracias" was displayed, written across a 150-metre area as a tribute to the world runners-up.
Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul were not present, having remained in the United States along with four other players who will travel directly to their respective clubs or begin their holiday period. Despite the presence of fans, no official celebrations are planned: the Argentine Football Association (AFA) ruled out public events following the disappointment of the lost final, and Javier Milei's government consequently also shelved the idea of declaring a national holiday. After returning, the squad will transfer to the AFA's training centre in Ezeiza before the delegation officially disperses.
