Messi slammed for trying to get Spain's Cucurella sent off under new FIFA rule

Published Jul 19, 09:29 PM UTC

During the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, Argentina's Enzo Fernandez was sent off in stoppage time for a reckless foul. Amid the ensuing chaos, Lionel Messi attempted to get Spain's Marc Cucurella sent off by flagging to officials that Cucurella had covered his mouth while speaking, a violation of a new FIFA anti-racism rule. The incident drew criticism from pundits Wayne Rooney, Micah Richards, and Joe Hart, who accused Messi of a sly and desperate attempt to level the playing field. The match, held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, was largely lackluster until the late drama.