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New Delhi: Qatar's Lusail Stadium has been confirmed as the host venue for the men's Finalissima 2026, with European champions Spain taking on Copa America winners Argentina on March 27, 2026. This announcement was made by the Local Organising Committee for Football Events, confirming the return of a marquee international match to the venue that hosted the FIFA World Cup final in 2022.
The match also carries significant resonance for Argentina, as Lionel Messi's team will return to Lusail Stadium for the first time after lifting the World Cup in December 2022, defeating France in a thrilling final.
Spain will arrive to the fixture as the current European champions after defeating England 2-1 in the final of the 2024 UEFA Euro in Berlin to clinch a record-extending fourth continental title, while Argentina booked their place in the Finalissima by successfully defending their Copa America title in 2024, beating Colombia 1-0 after extra time.
The Finalissima will be played over 90 minutes, with no extra time scheduled. If the scores are levelled at full-time, then the winner will be decided through a penalty shootout. The match will be supported by full technology, including VAR, goal-line and semi-automated offside technology. The fixture is part of the ongoing strategic partnership between UEFA and CONMEBOL, after the renewal and expansion of their Memorandum of Understanding in December 2021.
The Minister of Sports and Youth and chairman of the Local Organising Committee, H.E. Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, said that Qatar is proud to host the fixture between two champions.
"We have a proven track record of delivering world-class sporting events and providing an exceptional experience for fans, supporters and media. Hosting the Finalissima 2026 reflects the continued trust placed in Qatar by our partners," he added.
In recent years, Qatar has hosted the 48-team FIFA U-17 World Cup, the AGCFF U-17 Gulf Cup, the U23 Gulf Cup Qatar, and the concluding matches of the Intercontinental Cup during the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar.
