Dozens of Argentine football fans, whose aspirations of attending the upcoming World Cup in the United States were thwarted by visa denials, are finding an unexpected consolation prize in the form of a new television. Argentine conglomerate Newsan has launched an initiative to distribute local brand Noblex televisions to the first 100 individuals who can provide proof of a US visa rejection between January and June of this year.
The offer led to queues forming outside Newsan's Buenos Aires office on Wednesday, following an Instagram advertisement that boldly stated: "Give us your denied visa and take a free TV." Among the recipients was Tomas Vageller, a 24-year-old professional video game player, who expressed his disappointment at missing what many believe will be Lionel Messi's final World Cup. "It's very sad I won't be able to see it, but well, I'm leaving with a gift," he remarked.
Despite Argentina being three-time World Cup winners, the usual fervent "football fever" appears somewhat subdued in the lead-up to the 2026 tournament in North America. This contrasts sharply with the intense national excitement witnessed in 2022, when many believed it represented Messi's last opportunity to lead the team to victory. Argentina famously won their first World Cup since 1986 in Qatar, defeating France in the final on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Visa issues have not only affected fans but also players and officials for this World Cup, largely due to stringent border restrictions imposed by the US administration. Fans and players from Iran have been significantly impacted, with ticket allocations revoked and the team forced to relocate their base to Mexico despite all their group games being scheduled in the US. Other individuals who have faced difficulties entering or have been refused entry include fans from Haiti, Iraqi personnel, the head of Palestine football, Somalian referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, and Switzerland striker Breel Embolo.
Argentina are set to commence their 2026 campaign on Wednesday, 17th June, against Algeria in Group J. Their other opponents in the group are Austria and tournament debutants Jordan. The provision of free televisions by Newsan offers a unique form of corporate goodwill, attempting to soften the blow for those who cannot personally witness their national team's pursuit of a fourth World Cup title.