Daijiworld Media Network - Doha
Doha, Dec 19: Qatar will host the men’s Finalissima 2026 at the iconic Lusail Stadium on March 27, 2026, the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for Football Events announced on Thursday.
The prestigious one-off clash will see reigning European champions Spain lock horns with South American champions Argentina, promising a high-voltage encounter between two footballing giants.
For Argentina, the match holds special significance as it marks a return to Lusail Stadium, the venue where La Albiceleste scripted history by defeating France in the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, ending a 36-year wait for the world title.
H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, Minister of Sports and Youth and Chairman of the LOC, said Qatar was proud to host the marquee event. “Qatar has a proven track record of delivering world-class sporting events and offering an exceptional experience for fans, supporters and media. Hosting Finalissima 2026 once again reflects the confidence and trust placed in Qatar by its international partners,” he said.
He highlighted Qatar’s recent and upcoming football commitments, including hosting the first-ever 48-team FIFA U-17 World Cup, where 104 matches were played at a single venue, the AGCFF U-17 Gulf Cup, the U23 Gulf Cup Qatar, and the final three matches of the Intercontinental Cup alongside the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar, set to conclude on December 18.
UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin said the Finalissima represents unity in world football. “This match symbolises the coming together of two footballing continents and underlines the global appeal of the sport. We are looking forward to an unforgettable night of elite football and international celebration,” he said.
CONMEBOL President Alejandro Domínguez echoed the sentiment, describing the Finalissima as more than just a match. “It is a symbol of cooperation and mutual respect between confederations, and a unique opportunity for fans to witness a truly historic footballing occasion,” he said.
The Finalissima 2026 is expected to draw massive global attention, with Lusail once again set to be the centre stage for world football.