Pre-Final Press Conference Makes History

The clock is relentlessly ticking down to the grand finale of the 2026 World Cup, and the preparations surrounding the tournament's culminating match have already made history.

For the first time ever, the final press conference for the coaching staffs of the finalists took place a full two days before the match that will crown the new world champions.

Representatives from Argentina and Spain faced the microphones at a spectacular event organized by FIFA.

The special press conference was attended by numerous personalities from both the sports world and contemporary pop culture.

Among them were Novak Djokovic, Rio Ferdinand, Kevin Hart, Tom Brady, and Kevin Durant, who weren't just static VIP guests but were actively involved in the event, posing questions to the key figures.

Logically, coaches Luis de la Fuente and Lionel Scaloni appeared in two separate panels to discuss the upcoming final. They were joined on stage by some of the most important players from both teams. In the first part of the press conference, featuring the Spanish coach, the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, Rodri, answered questions.

Lionel Scaloni, who was part of the second panel, was accompanied by two individuals: the team's superstar, Lionel Messi, and their goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez.

Furthermore, the press conference wasn't just for journalists and celebrity guests; it also became a ticketed event, open to football fans. This meant that over 1200 people attended the final media appearances before the big match – a spectacle likely unprecedented before any other World Cup final.

The purpose of this event wasn't solely to create a dazzling effect and continue the impressive series of events that characterized the entire World Cup in North America. It also aimed to provide the necessary time for both coaching staffs to prepare for the final on Sunday, July 19th. After Lionel Scaloni, Luis de la Fuente, and the stars of both teams completed their important media obligations, they will have over 24 hours until the final to focus solely on their preparations.

The clash between Argentina and Spain will take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Tomorrow, the referee's whistle will signal the start of the match at 10:00 PM Bulgarian time. The big game, along with all 104 matches of the 2026 World Cup, can be watched live on bnt.sportal.bg.