Argentina fans and media fear bias over François Letexier for Egypt last-16 tie | OneFootball

The appointment of French referee François Letexier for Argentina’s World Cup last 16 against Egypt on Tuesday at 18:00 has prompted a backlash in Argentina. He will be assisted by compatriots Cyril Mugnier and Mehdi Rahmouni.

On X, posts alleged injustice, rigging and claims that France are being helped to win the World Cup. Argentine outlets also voiced concern, with Gente de Salta writing that a French officiating team is the least desirable choice and pointing to a scandalous precedent. Users cite the rivalry with France and the team’s favourite status.

The reference is the Prestianni affair. In the Champions League play-off first leg between Real Madrid and Benfica on 17 February, which finished 1-0 before a 2-1 return, Gianluca Prestianni is alleged to have directed racist insults at Vinicius just after the opener. Letexier, alerted by the Brazilian forward, halted the match to apply the anti-discrimination protocol.

Play resumed after eight minutes with no immediate sanction for Prestianni. UEFA later gave him a six-match ban, three suspended, for homophobic conduct.

This is Letexier’s first World Cup, and he will be taking charge of his third game of the tournament. His performance will be closely watched.

Source: L'Équipe