The Guardian criticizes Messi for not repudiating Argentina's "racism": "He is not comparable to Muhammad Ali"

Donald Trump attended the final match of the 2026 World Cup at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, where Argentina faced Spain. Before the game began, the U.S. president expressed admiration for Lionel Messi, stating that he would not bet against the Argentine star. Trump avoided picking a favorite for the title but emphasized his respect for Messi’s abilities, calling him “great.” He also praised his relationship with Argentine President Javier Milei, noting that Milei had done a “good job.” Trump was seated among dignitaries including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Spanish King Felipe VI, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. His presence underscored the political significance of the event, which drew global attention beyond just the sporting aspect. Earlier in the week, a senior official from Trump's administration, Andrew Giuliani, addressed controversy surrounding the display of a flag bearing the message “Las Malvinas son argentinas” by members of Argentina’s national team after their victory over England in the semifinals. Giuliani defended the players’ right to express themselves under the First Amendment, rejecting suggestions that they should face sanctions for showing the flag. He stated that the athletes had the freedom to make such statements during the tournament in the United States. The flag incident sparked criticism from some sectors in the UK, who viewed the gesture as politically charged and inappropriate for a sports competition. In Argentina, the display of the flag generated mixed reactions, with some government officials expressing concern over its implications. However, Giuliani maintained that the players were within their rights to express national pride, emphasizing that the U.S. supports free speech. Meanwhile, international media has scrutinized Messi’s stance on issues beyond football. In a recent article published in The Guardian, former NBA player and activist Etan Thomas criticized Messi for not publicly condemning instances of racism within the Argentine football community. Thomas argued that while Messi’s athletic achievements place him alongside legends like Pelé, his silence on social issues contrasts sharply with figures such as Muhammad Ali, Bill Russell, or Colin Kaepernick, who used their platforms to advocate for change. Thomas pointed out that Messi did not address the racial slurs directed at Black individuals or the controversial chants heard during Argentina’s matches following the Copa América. He cited Martin Luther King Jr.’s assertion that “the time is always ripe to do right,” suggesting that silence in the face of injustice constitutes complicity. According to Thomas, the absence of public condemnation from one of the sport’s most influential figures sends a message that neutrality is acceptable, even when ethical concerns arise. The context surrounding Argentina’s participation in the World Cup added complexity to these discussions. Thomas highlighted ongoing tensions involving discrimination, both within the sport and in broader societal contexts. He noted the prevalence of racist language in videos shared online, offensive chants by players, and attacks on content creators of color. These issues intersected with political dynamics, particularly regarding Argentina’s international alliances and the leadership of President Milei. In contrast to Messi’s perceived reticence, Thomas praised emerging Spanish talents such as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams, whose backgrounds reflect diversity and personal sacrifice. He described them as part of a new generation of athletes who integrate social responsibility into their professional success. Their actions, such as Yamal’s respectful embrace of Messi after the match, exemplify a different approach to sportsmanship and advocacy. As the world watches the outcome of the final, the intersection of politics, sports, and ethics continues to shape narratives around the event. The decisions made by players, officials, and leaders will have lasting impacts on how the tournament is remembered.