The red ribbons worn by Argentine players on their ankles or wrists have become an iconic image on the World Cup stage. From Messi to Alvarez, many Argentine national team players wear this red ribbon. So, what is its origin? talkSPORT explains.
This tradition dates back to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.
At the time, Argentina drew 1-1 with Iceland in their first group stage match, with Messi missing a penalty. After the game, Argentine journalist Juan Pablo Pantarrotto presented Messi with a red ribbon, hoping to bring him good luck.
This ribbon held great significance; it originally belonged to Pantaloto's mother. When presenting the gift, he said to Messi, "My mother loves you more than I do. I've always carried this red ribbon of hers as a lucky charm. If you'd like, I'd like to give it to you."
Since then, the red ribbon has been with Messi and has gradually become a lucky symbol in the Argentine team's locker room.
Although it didn't immediately change Messi's luck in penalty kicks, it was the 2022 Qatar World Cup that truly made the red ribbon famous.
In that tournament, Messi led Argentina all the way to the final and ultimately defeated France, helping the team win the World Cup title again after 36 years. Messi not only scored twice in the final, but also calmly converted his penalty in the shootout, finally lifting the coveted World Cup trophy.
Since then, more and more Argentine players have started wearing red ribbons in matches, hoping to continue this good fortune. Today, whether it's Messi, Alvarez, or other Argentine national team players, they often wear this red ribbon on their ankles or wrists, making it one of the most recognizable "little traditions" of the Argentine team.
With Argentina once again advancing to the World Cup semi-finals, the lucky red ribbon has reappeared in the team's training and matches. For Argentina, aiming to defend their title, they hope this good fortune, which has persisted since 2018, will continue to accompany the team in their quest for the championship.
