Brussels, Belgium – Several prominent political figures will be absent from the 2026 World Cup final, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Argentine President Javier Pellegrini, for various reasons despite the event’s global significance.
Reports indicate that von der Leyen apologized for not attending the final due to a busy schedule and official commitments. These obligations prevented her from traveling to the United States to watch the match from the stands.
In contrast, Argentine President Javier Melli chose not to attend the match, citing what those close to him described as “football superstition.” He insists on watching his national team’s matches in the same way he has throughout the tournament. He believes that changing this habit might negatively impact the team’s chances of winning the title.
Melli is known for adhering to certain personal rituals during major tournaments. This has attracted the attention of the Argentine media, which has linked his decision to common sporting beliefs among fans. Many prefer not to alter their routines during crucial matches.
The world’s attention is focused on the final match between Argentina and Spain, which is expected to draw a large audience of both fans and officials. The absence of Ursula von der Leyen and Melli has drawn attention as one of the most notable political absences from the world’s most important football event.
