Algeria has filed an official protest with FIFA following a foul committed by Lionel Messi during a 2026 World Cup match, according to reports from Spiegel and BILD. The Algerian delegation stated they “cannot remain silent” after a specific incident involving a kick by the Argentine captain.
Why Algeria Filed the Complaint
The protest centers on “foul play” by Messi, according to T-Online. While some outlets describe the event as a general foul, BILD specifically characterized the action as a “kick” (Tritt) directed at an opponent. The Algerian side indicated that the nature of the challenge warranted a formal grievance to the governing body.
“Cannot remain silent”
Algerian representative, via Ntv
Differing Reports on the Incident
Media descriptions of the event vary slightly in terminology. T-Online reported the filing as a response to “foul play,” whereas BILD focused on the physical nature of the contact, labeling it a “kick.” Both reports confirm the complaint has been formally submitted to FIFA for review.
