FIFA reports Argentina most targeted by social media hate speech

FIFA has released a report detailing the prevalence of hate speech on social media following the 2026 World Cup. According to data analyzed by the Social Media Protection Service (SMPS) from over 17 million posts across platforms like X, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok, the Argentina national team was the most targeted entity for hate speech. The attacks against Argentina often centered on allegations of refereeing favoritism and xenophobia. Other nations facing high levels of online abuse included England, Spain, Brazil, and Norway.

On an individual level, Argentine players ranked fourth in terms of personal attacks, following players from France, England, and Portugal. These attacks frequently involved racism, particularly targeting players of African descent. The report also highlighted that referees were the most significant targets of serious threats, including doxing and accusations of corruption.

Separately, FIFA has modified the enforcement mechanism for sanctions imposed on three Argentine players—Leandro Paredes, Nahuel Molina, and Thiago Almada—and assistant coach Roberto Ayala. Following a request from the Argentine Football Association, the suspensions will now be served during first-class international friendlies or CONMEBOL official matches, rather than including official FIFA competition matches. This change may allow the players to complete their bans in fewer matches.