The long-awaited showdown between the kings of Europe and the masters of South America finally has a time and a place.
UEFA and CONMEBOL have officially confirmed that La Finalissima 2026, featuring Spain and Argentina, will take place on March 27, 2026, in Doha, Qatar.
The match will be hosted at the iconic Lusail Stadium—the very site where Lionel Messi and the Albiceleste lifted the World Cup trophy just over three years ago.
The Details: What You Need to Know
This one-off "Grand Final" pits the UEFA Euro 2024 winners against the 2024 Copa América champions in a clash for global supremacy.
Date: Friday, March 27, 2026
Venue: Lusail Stadium, Doha, Qatar
Kick-off: 21:00 Local Time (19:00 CET / 15:00 ART)
Format: 90 minutes of regulation. If the scores are level at full-time, the match goes directly to a penalty shootout (no extra time).
A Symbolic Return for Argentina
For Argentina, this isn't just a trophy defense; it’s a homecoming. Returning to Lusail Stadium carries immense emotional weight for the squad,as it was the theater for their legendary victory over France in 2022. Argentina enters as the defending Finalissima champions, having dismantled Italy 3–0 at Wembley in the 2022 edition.
Spain’s Maiden Finalissima
While Argentina is a veteran of this intercontinental format (having also won the predecessor Copa Artemio Franchi in 1993), this marks Spain’s first-ever appearance in the Finalissima. La Roja arrives as the #1 ranked team in the world, looking to prove that their youthful, high-octane style can overcome the battle-hardened resilience of the world champions.
"This match symbolises the unification of two footballing continents," stated UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin. "We look forward to an unforgettable evening of elite football."
The "Yamal vs. Messi" Narrative
Beyond the trophies, the world is buzzing about the individual match-up. It will likely be one of the few (and perhaps only) times we see the legendary Lionel Messi share a pitch with the teenager many call his heir, Lamine Yamal.
With the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada kicking off just months after this fixture, the Finalissima will serve as the ultimate litmus test for both nations' ambitions.
Ticket Information: The Local Organising Committee has stated that details regarding ticket sales and hospitality packages will be released in the coming weeks.