Argentina submits special request to FIFA ahead of World Cup semi-final

Argentina has submitted a special request to FIFA ahead of their 2026 World Cup semi-final against England, seeking permission to wear their navy blue away kit instead of their traditional light blue and white striped home colours. The request, confirmed by FIFA, marks a strategic and symbolic move by the reigning champions as they prepare to face their historic rivals in Atlanta on Wednesday, July 15.

The decision comes amid heightened anticipation for the match, which will be the sixth encounter between England and Argentina in World Cup history. Argentina’s request, first reported by journalist Gaston Edul and corroborated by multiple outlets, centers on the team’s desire to replicate the kit worn during two of their most iconic victories over England: the 1986 quarter-final, where Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal and “Goal of the Century” secured a 2-1 win, and the 1998 Round of 16 penalty shootout, which saw David Beckham sent off for a tackle on Diego Simeone.

FIFA’s official Match Colour Designation confirmed that Argentina will don the navy blue kit, paired with white shorts and red socks, for the semi-final. The team has worn this colour only once before in the tournament, during a group-stage victory over Jordan on June 28. England, designated the home team, will wear their white home kit, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford possibly donning the yellow strip used in their quarter-final against Norway.

The request underscores the deep historical and emotional significance of the rivalry. Argentina’s use of the navy blue kit in 1986 and 1998 is seen as a potential psychological advantage, with the team aiming to channel the momentum of those victories. “Everything I have seen and remember [about Argentina vs. England from 1986] is from videos and images that Argentinians constantly watch and relive,” Lionel Messi said, reflecting on the match’s legacy. “But I think this group is used to playing football matches regardless of the opponent.”

Messi, who has never faced England in his 205 international appearances, emphasized the uniqueness of the encounter. “Personally, it’s the first time I’m going to play against them. I’ve played against everyone except England, so it will be nice for that reason too,” he stated. The 39-year-old, a co-leader of the Golden Boot race with eight goals, will spearhead Argentina’s bid to defend their title, having already scored in their 3-1 quarter-final victory over Switzerland.

England’s path to the semi-final included a 2-1 extra-time win over Norway, fueled by Jude Bellingham’s brace. The Three Lions, seeking their first World Cup final since 1966, face a formidable challenge in Argentina, which has remained unbeaten in their tournament matches. The semi-final will be broadcast live in the U.S. On FOX and FOX One, with the winner advancing to the final in New Jersey on July 19.

The decision to grant Argentina’s request highlights FIFA’s willingness to accommodate historical and cultural considerations in high-stakes matches. While the official rationale focused on avoiding a colour clash with England’s white kit, the broader context of the team’s past successes in navy blue cannot be overlooked. For fans, the match represents not just a contest of skill but a rekindling of one of football’s most storied rivalries.

As the teams prepare for the clash, the stage is set for a match steeped in history, with Argentina’s choice of kit symbolizing their determination to rewrite the narrative. Whether the navy blue will bring the same fortune as in 1986 remains to be seen, but for now, the decision has added another layer of intrigue to what promises to be a defining encounter in the 2026 World Cup.