Lionel Messi’s Argentina is scheduled to face Lamine Yamal’s Spain in the Finalissima this month at Lusail Stadium in Qatar. However, the current political situation in the Middle East has cast doubt, and Spain manager Luis De La Fuente has addressed the situation.
Luis De La Fuente Says Shifting Finalissima From Qatar Is Sensible
Geopolitical developments in Iran after the recent attack from the USA and Israel, followed by retaliatory missiles fired at the Arabian Peninsula, have grounded commercial flights across multiple countries in the Middle East. Qatar is among the nations brought to a standstill just days before hosting the Finalissima.
Spain manager Luis De La Fuente spoke to RNE Deportes this week, saying that a change of venue would be ideal for everyone. He emphasized that the first priority is to stop the conflict between the countries, though he is unsure how long it will last.
The Spaniard added that negotiations have already begun among those responsible for making a decision, hinting that backup plans are being discussed should the match in Qatar not proceed as scheduled. He said:
“The solution, as I understand, would be to find another venue, if possible, while the matches can’t be played there. I think that’s pretty much the direction the negotiations are heading. People are working on it at all levels. We know that talks are taking place, negotiations are underway. The first priority, obviously, as a society, is to stop the conflict, but once it’s already in full swing, and we don’t know how long it will last.”
His comments come just days after the Qatar FA announced that all football matches in the country were suspended indefinitely. “Qatar Football Association announces the postponement of all tournaments, competitions, and matches, effective from today and until further notice. The new dates for the resumption of competitions will be announced in due course through the Association’s official channels.”
Though the Finalissima was not mentioned directly, the match is unlikely to take place unless airspace reopens for commercial flights. Dubai International Airport, a key hub for global travel, was also targeted this week.
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FIFA, the Spanish football federation, Argentina’s football federation, and CONMEBOL have yet to issue a statement amid widespread rumors on social media. UEFA released a short statement saying it is monitoring the situation and assessing options.
The Finalissima was scheduled to be played at Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar, on March 27, with Argentina also set to face Qatar in a friendly on March 31.
