Argentina considers granting public employees time off to welcome the national team after the 2026 World Cup final.

As reported by a Vietnam News Agency correspondent in Buenos Aires, the Argentine government is weighing a directive granting public sector workers time off for the national team's homecoming after the 2026 World Cup final against Spain on July 19 (local time), with expectations that millions of citizens will line the streets to greet the players.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has arranged a chartered flight to transport Lionel Scaloni and his team back to Buenos Aires. Originally scheduled to touch down at Ezeiza International Airport between 12:00 and 14:00 on July 20 (local time), the itinerary remains subject to adjustments based on AFA's decisions following the final match.

La Nación reports, citing sources from Argentina's Presidential Office, that the proposal for public sector leave remains under consideration, with a potential official announcement after the conclusion of the final. Several officials estimate that at least four million people will flood the streets to greet the team, rendering regular commuting and daily operations in the capital Buenos Aires almost unfeasible. The government is also exploring the option of granting leave lasting up to 48 hours.

Meanwhile, Argentina's Security Ministry convened a meeting with delegates from federal security agencies, the Presidential Guard, the Buenos Aires city administration, and the Buenos Aires province to formulate a security strategy for the team's homecoming celebration. Officials anticipate that the highest concentration of people will be at the Obelisco square, a traditional gathering place for fans whenever Argentine football triumphs.

President Javier Milei earlier announced that the Casa Rosada presidential palace would be set aside for the team to make an appearance and greet supporters, provided the coaching staff and players consent.

Argentina's national team is currently working to retain their World Cup championship, having secured the title in Qatar in 2022. Should they overcome Spain in the final, Argentina would claim their fourth World Cup victory and become the third side ever to successfully defend the title, following Italy (1934, 1938) and Brazil (1958, 1962).