Argentina removes Covid-19 memorial stones from Plaza de Mayo before World Cup final

The Argentine government temporarily removed the stone memorial honoring Covid‑19 victims that had been placed around the Monument to Manuel Belgrano in Plaza de Mayo. The removal, carried out on Saturday by Gendarmería personnel, was ordered as a preventive measure ahead of the possible massive gatherings expected if the national team wins the World Cup 2026 final against Spain. The stones were transferred to the Casa Rosada and families of the victims were notified in advance. Authorities said the memorial will be restored to its original location after the celebrations and security operations, which include thousands of police and other forces, conclude.

The decision was prompted by recommendations from Buenos Aires city security officials, aiming to protect the sensitive memorial from potential damage during the expected crowd influx around the Obelisk and other central sites.