Laporte speaks controversy: “If referee imposes himself, Spain will win the World Cup final”

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Barcelona president Joan Laporta has ignited a firestorm of debate just days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, declaring that Spain will defeat Argentina—but only if the referee “imposes himself” on the match.

In an interview with El Partidazo de COPE from New York’s iconic Fifth Avenue, Laporta did not hold back when asked about Sunday’s showdown at the New York New Jersey Stadium.

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“We Have the Better Team”

Laporta’s confidence in La Roja was unmistakable.

“I already made my position clear. With Spain,” he told journalist Juanma Castaño.

When pressed for a prediction, he responded emphatically: “They will win, they will win.”

But then came the qualifier that has sent shockwaves through the football world.

“We have the better team,” Laporta said, “and if the referee is a referee who imposes himself… if he is a referee who imposes himself… the Spanish national team will have more chances of winning the match. But the referee has to impose himself.”

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What Did He Mean?

Laporta’s remarks have been interpreted by Spanish media not as a suggestion that the referee should favour Spain, but rather that the official must possess the personality and authority to withstand Argentina’s physical intensity and big-game experience.

The implication is clear: if the referee allows the game to become overly physical or fails to control the tempo, Spain’s technical, possession-based style could be neutralised by Argentina’s aggressive pressing and streetwise approach.

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A Club President in the Spotlight

Laporta is in the United States alongside a host of Barcelona dignitaries, including sporting director Deco, to support the Spanish national team—and to witness the club’s extraordinary representation on football’s biggest stage.

Up to eight players with ties to La Masia could feature in the final, including Lionel Messi on the Argentine side and Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, and Dani Olmo for Spain.

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Deco’s Divided Loyalties

Deco, the Barcelona sporting director, offered a more measured perspective when asked for his prediction.

“It’s the best match that could be played in the world right now,” he said.

But unlike his president, Deco refused to name a favourite: “No, no, no, I don’t think so. Difficult.”

He acknowledged that Argentina “have suffered” along the way but possess “a team heart.”

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Laporta Also Addresses Julián Álvarez Transfer

Beyond the final, Laporta used the interview to confirm Barcelona’s interest in Atlético Madrid forward Julián Álvarez—who will also feature in Sunday’s final for Argentina.

“We have made an offer, and now the decision is in Atlético’s hands,” Laporta stated.

“The player has said he wants to leave, but our offer is not valid forever. We will set a final deadline if Atlético changes its position. We have made a very good offer. He is the player Flick and Deco want.”

However, he added a note of caution: “If the agreement is not reached, we have to work on other alternatives.”

Atlético president Enrique Cerezo quickly responded: “Laporta is a great friend and a good president, and he knows very well, as you do, where Julián Álvarez will play next season.”

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A Final Fraught with Tension

Sunday’s final already carried immense weight: defending champions Argentina against a Spain side seeking its second World Cup title. The presence of Slovenian referee Slavko Vinčić—the same official who oversaw Argentina’s shock 2022 loss to Saudi Arabia—has only added to the intrigue.

Laporta’s comments have now poured gasoline on an already volatile fire. Argentine media have labelled his remarks “controversial,” while Spanish outlets have noted the “contundent” nature of his prediction.

One thing is certain: when the teams walk out at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, all eyes will not only be on Messi and Yamal—but on the man with the whistle.

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