Javier Milei

Billionaire Peter Thiel's hedge fund, Thiel Macro LLC, acquired a 1% stake (about $76 million) in Vista Energy, an Argentine shale oil producer operating in the Vaca Muerta formation. The investment, disclosed in an August 2026 SEC filing, is Thiel Macro's second-largest disclosed position after Amazon. Thiel recently relocated to Buenos Aires and met with Argentine President Javier Milei in April 2026 to discuss economic reforms and attracting foreign capital into Argentina's natural resources sector.

7 reports · 3 sources · Updated Aug 18, 10:00 PM UTC

On August 7, 2026, far-right millionaire lawyer Abelardo de la Espriella was sworn in as Colombia's president in Cali, the first inauguration held outside Bogotá. The ceremony, marked by a religious and military tone, excluded outgoing President Gustavo Petro and Nobel laureate Juan Manuel Santos. De la Espriella vowed to abolish the Special Jurisdiction for Peace, end peace talks with armed groups, and launch a firm offensive against drug trafficking. He plans to join the Shield of the Americas program, expand fossil fuel exploration, and implement fiscal austerity. The event was attended by regional right-wing leaders and a U.S. delegation.

7 reports · 4 sources · Updated Aug 8, 07:20 AM UTC

Argentine President Javier Milei accused Brazil, Mexico, and the US Democratic Party of funding an anti-Argentina campaign during the 2026 World Cup, without evidence. He also insulted Brazilian President Lula da Silva as a "thief" and "prisoner" and a Supreme Court judge as a "bald scumbag" at a rally for Brazilian opposition candidate Flávio Bolsonaro. Brazil recalled its ambassador to Argentina for consultations, marking the most serious diplomatic rift between the two neighbors in decades.

9 reports · 6 sources · Updated Aug 3, 02:42 AM UTC

After Argentina lost 0-1 to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, President Javier Milei announced a national holiday to honor the team, despite the defeat. The government had prepared six celebration plans, but players declined due to disappointment. Milei faced mockery for a pre-written victory tweet. He defended the team against criticism, citing envy, while controversies over refereeing and racism emerged. The holiday date will be set by players and staff.

7 reports · 3 sources · Updated Aug 1, 02:49 PM UTC

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva expressed confidence in Argentina's economic reforms under President Javier Milei during a visit to Buenos Aires, praising falling inflation, fiscal discipline, and improved sovereign risk. However, a $32.3 billion foreign-currency debt repayment in 2027 looms, coinciding with Milei's expected reelection bid. The IMF has backed Milei's austerity program, but analysts warn that voter support may wane if economic gains are not felt at home. Moody's, S&P, and Fitch have upgraded Argentina's rating, yet the IMF's latest staff report noted 'exceptional risks' to debt sustainability. Georgieva's visit included a meeting with Milei and a tour of the Vaca Muerta shale formation, key to boosting energy exports.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 05:58 PM UTC

IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva arrived in Argentina on July 27, 2026, for her first visit as IMF chief, amid growing investor confidence in President Javier Milei's economic reforms. Argentina's exports are rising, reserves accumulating, and inflation has dropped from 25.5% in December 2023 to 1.9% in June. However, a $32.3 billion foreign-currency debt repayment in 2027 looms, coinciding with Milei's expected reelection bid. The government plans to meet obligations via multilateral financing, privatizations, and local debt issuance. The visit includes meetings with Milei and Economy Minister Caputo, and a trip to the Vaca Muerta shale formation. Analysts warn that while macroeconomic indicators improve, voter sentiment and political risks remain key challenges. The IMF's third review of Argentina's $20 billion program is upcoming.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 11:01 AM UTC

Brazil's Liberal Party formally nominated Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, 45, as its presidential candidate for the October 2026 election, setting up a contest against leftist incumbent Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva. Flavio is the eldest son of former far-right President Jair Bolsonaro, who is serving a 27-year prison sentence under house arrest for plotting a coup after his 2022 election loss. Flavio declared 'Bolsonaro blood flows here' at a convention in Sao Paulo, attended by Argentina's President Javier Milei. However, Flavio faces multiple crises: a leaked audio recording of him asking a banker accused of fraud to finance a film about his father, a public feud with stepmother Michelle Bolsonaro, and new U.S. tariffs imposed by President Trump. A Datafolha poll shows Lula leading Flavio 48% to 43% in a potential runoff. Courts have barred Jair Bolsonaro from making political statements, though an AI-generated video of him was shown at the convention.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 26, 04:11 PM UTC

This opinion piece by Etan Thomas explains why many Black Americans supported Spain over Argentina in the 2026 World Cup final, despite Spain's colonial history. The author argues that the decision was not about endorsing Spain but about opposing Argentina due to a pattern of racism, political silence, and controversial affiliations. Specific incidents cited include racist chants by Argentina fans and players, a hamburger business using a racial slur, and the political stances of Argentina's president Javier Milei, who aligns with Donald Trump and supports Israel amid the Gaza conflict. The article also criticizes Lionel Messi for not speaking out on these issues, contrasting him with historical athlete activists like Muhammad Ali and Bill Russell. The piece frames the match as a referendum on values rather than just sports.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 09:00 AM UTC

Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with Ferran Torres scoring the winning goal. The match was marred by Argentina's aggressive and unsportsmanlike conduct, including a red card, post-match brawls, and players turning their backs during the trophy ceremony. International media condemned Argentina's "anti-football" tactics, while praising Spain's technical play. Lionel Messi played his final World Cup for Argentina.

84 reports · 12 sources · Updated Jul 29, 01:26 AM UTC

The Spanish football team's World Cup victory sparked celebrations in Gaza, where Palestinians gathered at cafes and outdoor screenings despite the risk of Israeli attacks. Spain's vocal support for Palestinian rights and Israel's backing for Argentina turned the tournament into a political statement. Many waved Spanish flags and praised teenage star Lamine Yamal, who raised a Palestinian flag during Barcelona's La Liga celebrations. The Gaza al-Irada amputee football team sent a pre-game video message supporting Spain. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu supported Argentina, while Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez defended Yamal. An Israeli strike in early July killed Mohamed al-Wahidi, a Palestinian aid worker who organized World Cup screenings in Gaza. Fans struggled to follow matches due to destroyed homes and limited internet access, but expressed joy and solidarity with Spain.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 06:00 AM UTC

Argentine President Javier Milei, in an interview with LN+, praised the national team's performance in the 2026 World Cup, calling it extraordinary to reach the final three times in the last four tournaments. He explained his consideration of declaring a national holiday, emphasizing the need for celebration and leisure. Milei noted that out of 195 countries, Argentina consistently finishes among the top two, despite a dark day and bad luck. He specifically lauded Lionel Messi as the greatest of all time and coach Lionel Scaloni for his leadership skills, predicting that Scaloni could teach at the world's best universities after his coaching career. The comments were reported by La Nacion and summarized by Hupu Football News.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:45 AM UTC

Argentine President Javier Milei, in an interview with LN+, commented on the national team's performance in the 2026 World Cup final. He stated that the Argentine players were 'very talented' and fought until the very end to reach the final. Milei emphasized that the team maintained restraint even when the referee made incorrect decisions against Argentina. He noted that Sunday's game was very unfavorable for Argentina, and the entire match never went in their favor, though they still had chances to equalize in the final minutes. Milei acknowledged that Argentina lost to a very strong opponent. The report originates from La Nacion and was republished by Hupu soccer.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:31 AM UTC

In the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi, now 39, broke Miroslav Klose’s all-time scoring record by netting a hat-trick against Algeria and a brace against Austria, bringing his total to 18 goals. Argentina secured top spot in their group, set to face Jordan next. Messi’s birthday on June 24 sparked global tributes from FIFA, teammates, and clubs, highlighting his enduring impact. He previously scored in a friendly against Iceland as preparation, declaring the team’s hunger for victory.

75 reports · 14 sources · Updated Jul 30, 12:57 AM UTC

Thousands of Argentine fans braved rain and cold to welcome their World Cup runners-up team home in Buenos Aires, but superstar Lionel Messi was notably absent. After Argentina's 0-1 final loss to Spain, Messi flew directly to Miami instead of joining the team. The government, led by President Javier Milei, prepared a protocol reception at the airport with a red carpet and honor guard, but no high-ranking officials attended, as Milei stated politics should not appropriate the football celebration. The team traveled by open bus to the AFA training ground in Ezeiza, cheered by fans. However, no further official honors occurred; a planned public holiday was canceled as players were not in a celebratory mood. Several key players, including Enzo Fernández, Lautaro Martínez, Julián Álvarez, and Rodrigo De Paul, also traveled directly to their clubs or on vacation.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:39 AM UTC

Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, likely Lionel Messi's last World Cup. Despite the defeat, Argentinian media overwhelmingly praised the national team's effort and character. Clarín's cover showed Messi crying with the headline 'They gave it their all: nothing to blame them for.' La Nación declared 'They are the pride of the nation.' Página|12 wrote 'From here to eternity,' and Olé used 'May they be eternal' from the national anthem. Coach Lionel Scaloni left his press conference in tears, casting doubt on his future. Former player Marcelo Gallardo noted Spain's dominance and the emotional drain from the semi-final against England. President Javier Milei acknowledged the historic achievement of reaching three of the last four World Cup finals and winning one. The Argentinian Football Association confirmed some squad members would return Monday but did not announce celebrations.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 01:30 PM UTC

U.S. President Donald Trump will attend the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, 2026, and present the trophy alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The White House confirmed his role, following a controversial tournament where Trump intervened to reverse a red card suspension for U.S. striker Folarin Balogun. Trump had not attended prior matches. Argentine President Javier Milei will skip the final due to superstition.

84 reports · 16 sources · Updated Jul 21, 02:23 PM UTC

Argentine President Javier Milei has decided not to attend the final match in New Jersey, drawing a parallel to soccer star Lionel Messi's approach of focusing on the game rather than political spectacle. The article explains Milei's rationale for skipping the event, emphasizing his intent to separate sports from state affairs. This move aligns with his broader political philosophy of reducing government involvement in personal and cultural matters. The decision is framed as a deliberate statement against the traditional intertwining of politics and sports in Argentina, where leaders often use major sporting events for political gain. Milei's absence is portrayed as a principled stand, reinforcing his image as an outsider willing to break with established norms.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 04:00 PM UTC

Argentine President Javier Milei has decided not to attend the final match in New Jersey, drawing a parallel to soccer star Lionel Messi's approach of keeping sports separate from politics. The article explores Milei's rationale, emphasizing his belief in reducing state involvement in sports events. By skipping the final, Milei aims to signal a policy shift towards less government interference in athletic affairs, aligning with his broader libertarian agenda. The move is seen as a symbolic gesture to distance the state from stadium activities, reflecting a trend of depoliticizing sports in Argentina.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 04:00 PM UTC

Argentine President Javier Milei has decided not to attend the 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey, framing his absence as a deliberate political statement to separate the state from sports. Drawing a parallel with soccer star Lionel Messi, Milei argues that government officials should not co-opt national sporting achievements for political gain. The move aligns with his broader libertarian agenda of reducing state involvement in all aspects of life, including sports. Milei's absence marks a departure from the tradition of Argentine presidents attending major sporting events, signaling a shift in the relationship between the government and national sports culture.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 04:00 PM UTC

This article previews the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, the top two teams in the FIFA rankings, set to be played in New Jersey. It profiles referee Slavko Vincic, the first Slovene to officiate a World Cup final, noting his experience in the 2024 Champions League final and the 2024 Euros semi-final. The analysis highlights several factors that may influence the outcome: Spain has an extra day's rest, a trend favoring teams that played their semi-final first; Argentina's president Javier Milei will not attend due to a 36-year superstition against presidential attendance; historical stakes include Argentina seeking back-to-back titles and Spain aiming to hold both the Euros and World Cup simultaneously; and statistical contrasts between Argentina's high-scoring offense (19 goals) and Spain's stingy defense (1 goal conceded). The winners will receive championship rings, a new tradition for the tournament.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 19, 07:00 AM UTC

On the eve of the World Cup final, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Argentine Ambassador to Israel, Wahnish. During the meeting, Wahnish played a voice message from Argentine President Javier Milei, who thanked Netanyahu for his support. Netanyahu stated that relations between Israel and Argentina have transformed since Milei took office, calling the two countries 'the greatest and closest friends.' He expressed Israel's support for Argentina in the World Cup final, shouting 'Vamos Argentina' in Spanish. Netanyahu previously noted that his support for Argentina is primarily due to President Milei, not soccer star Lionel Messi. The article highlights Milei's firm support for Israeli policies, including plans to move the Argentine embassy to Jerusalem, which underpins the strengthened bilateral ties.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 11:52 PM UTC

After Argentina’s World Cup semi-final win over England in Atlanta, players held a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas,” reigniting the Falkland Islands sovereignty dispute. FIFA is reviewing the incident under its ban on political displays, with UK politicians calling for player bans. The White House defended the act as free speech. Argentina was fined £20,000 for a similar stunt in 2014. The banner reportedly remains with the squad ahead of the final.

25 reports · 12 sources · Updated Jul 29, 07:54 PM UTC

Argentine President Javier Milei has announced he will not travel to the 2026 World Cup final, citing superstition. Milei told Argentine radio station El Observador that 'under no circumstances' would he break his lucky ritual of watching matches from the presidential residence in Buenos Aires. His superstition extends to a cold ritual: during the Argentine winter, he does not heat the room and wears a thick YPF jacket, which he first wore during the quarterfinal against Switzerland. He claims that when he took the jacket off, Argentina conceded a goal, so he put it back on and has not removed it since. The article notes that such superstitious rituals, known as 'Cábalas,' are common in Argentine football culture, blending religious faith and superstition. Lionel Messi reportedly asked God for protection ahead of the tournament, and a journalist had his boots blessed at a major Catholic pilgrimage site.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 07:18 AM UTC

Argentina President Javier Milei has announced he will not attend the 2026 World Cup final, citing superstition. Milei told Argentine radio station El Observador that 'under no circumstances' would he break his lucky ritual of watching matches from the presidential residence in Buenos Aires. He also revealed he does not heat his residence during the Argentine winter and wears a thick YPF jacket during games, which he first wore in the quarterfinal against Switzerland. When he briefly removed the jacket, Argentina conceded a goal, so he has kept it on since. The article also discusses Argentina's football superstition culture, known as 'Cábalas,' and notes that Lionel Messi asked God for protection before the World Cup, while a journalist had his boots blessed at a Catholic basilica.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 06:51 AM UTC

Argentina President Javier Milei has confirmed he will not attend the 2026 World Cup final against Spain in the United States, choosing instead to watch from his presidential residence in Olivos due to superstition. The 55-year-old has watched all of Argentina's matches from home during the tournament. He explained his ritualistic habits, including wearing an oil company-branded jacket and refusing to turn on the heat, after a superstition formed during the Switzerland game when removing the jacket coincided with a goal against Argentina. The article also highlights broader Argentine football superstitions, including manager Lionel Scaloni's practice of stepping onto the pitch with his right foot first, and a pre-match photo ritual involving Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and AFA president Claudio Tapia that has been maintained since Argentina's 2021 Copa America victory. Argentina reached the final after a 2-1 comeback win against England, and will defend their 2022 World Cup title at MetLife Stadium on July 19.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 07:07 PM UTC

Argentina President Javier Milei has confirmed he will not attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup final against Spain at MetLife Stadium, citing superstition. The 55-year-old president stated he will watch the match from his presidential residence in Olivos, as he has done for all previous games in the tournament. Milei explained his superstitions in detail, including a ritual involving an oil company-branded jacket: during the Switzerland match, he removed the jacket when he got hot, and Switzerland scored; he put it back on and never removed it again. The article also notes other Argentine football superstitions, such as manager Lionel Scaloni always stepping onto the pitch with his right foot first, and a pre-match photo ritual involving Lionel Messi, Rodrigo De Paul, and Claudio Tapia that has been maintained since winning the 2021 Copa America. Argentina, the reigning champions, reached the final after a 2-1 comeback win against England.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 07:07 PM UTC

The Frankfurt Regional Court has issued a temporary injunction against FIFA regarding its World Cup ticket sales practices, ordering the governing body to refrain from certain practices toward consumers in Germany. The ticket platform Ticombo GmbH accused FIFA of manipulative allocation, including time pressure, lack of transparency, and excessive fees. Separately, Spain's King Felipe VI and family will attend the final against Argentina, while Argentina's President Javier Milei will skip it due to superstition. Referee Slavko Vincic was named the final referee, breaking down in tears upon hearing the news. FIFA also announced it will award championship rings to the winners for the first time.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 17, 01:10 PM UTC

After a 3-2 comeback win over Egypt in the 2026 World Cup round of 16, Argentina’s football team, including Enzo Fernandez, sang a chant referencing the Falkland Islands (Malvinas) and the 1982 war, calling for “revenge” for Diego Maradona’s 1994 ban. The video sparked tensions ahead of a potential semi-final against England. FIFA, despite rules against political expression, declined to sanction Argentina, drawing accusations of inconsistency. The Falklands sovereignty dispute remains sensitive between the UK and Argentina.

101 reports · 21 sources · Updated Jul 17, 11:19 AM UTC

Buenos Aires Governor Axel Kicillof addressed internal tensions within Peronism during an event for his Right to the Future Movement, specifically launching a new space for Women and Diversities. The speech followed a contentious incident in La Plata where militants demanded he advocate for former President Cristina Kirchner’s freedom. Kicillof called for greater humility among party members, urging them to stop giving lessons on social media and to avoid wasting time on internal disputes. He emphasized that women have been the vanguard of resistance against President Javier Milei’s administration, highlighting their role in rejecting current policies at the polls. While criticizing Milei’s government for unemployment and authoritarianism, Kicillof stressed the need to build a national force without centralized control. Despite the earlier friction, the event proceeded smoothly with supporters chanting for his presidency. He concluded by invoking key Peronist figures, including Cristina Kirchner, signaling an attempt to balance criticism of hardline factions with adherence to broader movement unity.

1 reports · 1 sources

This analysis explores the complex political and business networks of José Luis Manzano, a former minister under Carlos Menem who now operates as a key figure in both Javier Milei’s libertarian government in Argentina and Pedro Sánchez’s socialist circle in Spain. Manzano, described as a politically opportunistic operator, facilitated significant energy deals, including the sale of YPF assets and partnerships with Mercuria Energy Group for Raizen Argentina. Simultaneously, he collaborates with Spanish socialists through the SIETE consortium to compete for digital television frequencies, aiding Sánchez’s re-election efforts. The article highlights Manzano’s use of restaurants in Madrid and Punta del Este as lobbying hubs. Furthermore, it details internal conflicts within the Argentine government, focusing on Karina Milei’s consolidation of power over intelligence and judicial appointments, often influenced by the Menem family. The piece underscores how business interests persist across shifting political regimes, with Manzano serving as a bridge between ideologically opposed factions while maintaining lucrative state-connected enterprises.

1 reports · 1 sources