Cristiano Ronaldo has reignited discussion on his long-running rivalry with Lionel Messi after reportedly liking an Instagram video alleging FIFA backing for Argentina.
Fans noticed on Monday, July 20, that Ronaldo liked a video from Instagram account @espejopublico, wherein FIFA was accused of corruption and helping Argentina reach the 2026 World Cup final.
The global football body has faced accusations of favouring Messi’s Argentina throughout the tournament, including over a disputed voided goal for Egypt during the round of 16. Argentina went on to lose the final to Spain 1-0 in extra time on Sunday, and players from both teams clashed after the final whistle.
While FIFA has since opened a disciplinary investigation into the incident, which could result in suspensions or fines for the Argentine Football Association, Ronaldo’s Portugal, on the other hand, was eliminated from the tournament by Spain in the round of 16. It marked his sixth and final World Cup appearance.
“I’m sad to leave the World Cup this way,” he told reporters afterward.
“I gave it my all, and I leave with a clear conscience. That’s the life of a footballer. You have to move forward. It was my last World Cup, yes. But as for the rest, there’s time to think, to be with my family, and not say things in the heat of the moment,” Ronaldo said.
At 41, Ronaldo was the oldest player to actually feature in a match at this World Cup. Scotland’s Craig Gordon, 43, was the tournament’s oldest named player but did not play.
Meanwhile, Messi’s future with Argentina looks less certain as he would have turned 43 by the 2030 World Cup.
