(Photo by Marc Israel SELLEM / POOL / AFP via Getty Images / [Paul Childs/Reuters])
Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed his support for Argentina, stating that he wants them to win the tournament.
During a recent podcast appearance, Netanyahu explicitly revealed that he is backing La Albiceleste during the World Cup 2026.
However, the Prime Minister clarified that his sudden football allegiance was not driven by Argentine legend Lionel Messi, but rather by his geopolitical admiration for the nation’s leadership.
DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL CAUGHTOFFSIDE APP FOR ALL THE LATEST & BREAKING UPDATES – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAY
Benjamin Netanyahu wants Argentina to win
When the podcast host suggested that Messi influenced his decision to back Argentina, Netanyahu replied: “No. Prime Minister Milei before Messi.”
Netanyahu, who reportedly has arrest warrants issued by the International Criminal Court for war crimes in Palestine and crimes against humanity, went on to praise Argentine President Javier Milei, saying: “He’s a real superstar. Israel’s greatest friend.”
??| JUST IN: Bibi Netanyahu has ?????????? announced he is supporting Argentina in this FIFA World Cup. ????
[@clashreport]pic.twitter.com/zJi1Q6RIg9
— Goals Side (@goalsside) July 9, 2026
The Israeli Prime Minister’s comments highlighted his growing camaraderie with Milei, who has aggressively sought close relations with the Israeli government since taking office.
Milei has repeatedly expressed staunch support for Israel and strengthened diplomatic ties with the country, including announcing plans to relocate Argentina’s embassy to Jerusalem.
For Netanyahu, this political friendship took absolute priority over any on-pitch football fandom.
Egypt vs Argentina controversy sparked suggestions of political punishment
Netanyahu’s vocal support for Argentina comes amid heavy fallout from Argentina’s dramatic 3-2 victory over Egypt in the Round of 16.
That match was marred…
..
