Finalissima cancelled after Qatar date scrapped due to regional political situation | OneFootball

UEFA confirmed in a statement that the Finalissima between Spain, Euro 2024 winners, and Argentina, Copa América 2024 champions, will not be played in Qatar on 27 March because of the current political situation in the region.

The governing body called the decision a major disappointment, thanked the Qatari organisers for their efforts and expressed confidence that peace would soon return.

The showpiece, created through UEFA and CONMEBOL’s collaboration, matches the champions of Europe and South America. Argentina won the inaugural 2022 edition 3-0 against Italy at Wembley.

UEFA explored alternatives after the Qatar date fell away. The first option was the Santiago Bernabéu on 27 March with a 50 per cent split of supporters, which Argentina refused.

A two-legged version was then proposed, with games at the Bernabéu on 27 March and in Buenos Aires during an international window before Euro and Copa América 2028, again with a 50 per cent allocation in Madrid. This was also rejected.

UEFA next sought Argentina’s commitment to play at a neutral European venue either on 27 March, as announced on 18 December 2025, or on 30 March, but that proposal was declined.

Argentina countered with a post-World Cup date, which was unworkable as Spain had no availability, then offered only 31 March, which proved infeasible.

UEFA thanked Real Madrid for mobilising at extremely short notice, and also praised the Qatari authorities and the Spanish federation for their cooperation throughout.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo