The national government has confirmed that Radio Televisión Argentina (RTA) will broadcast the matches of the Argentine national team during the 2026 World Cup through TV Pública, Radio Nacional, and the digital platforms of public media. The coverage will be financed entirely by advertising revenue, without using funds from taxes. Unlike previous years, the broadcasts will be limited to the matches of the Argentine team, led by Lionel Messi. This was announced by presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni, who emphasized that the cost of broadcasting rights will not fall on taxpayers. Authorities also firmly denied any agreement with the Argentine Football Association (AFA). The goal of this move is to maximize advertising revenue to cover costs and avoid state expenditures. The agreement was reached with Torneos y Competencias, the current holder of the audiovisual rights. Official sources noted that TV Pública will not become the owner of the tournament's rights. This step also reflects the government's desire to distance itself from the AFA amid a climate of accusations and to redefine the role of public media in covering major international sporting events. Key issues remain unresolved, such as the distribution of advertising revenue between RTA and the rights-holding companies, as well as the formation of the journalistic team, commentators, and artistic direction of the broadcasts. According to officials, the scheme is based on a commercial agreement that will allow the licensing fees to be covered through the sale of advertising space, ensuring free access to the national team's matches on open channels. Authorities highlighted that the measure represents a 'commercial opportunity and savings' for the public media system, while ensuring the broadcast of the national team's matches across the country for free. The agreement was approved by the President's General Secretary, Karina Milei, and formalized in a context of tension between the Casa Rosada and the AFA leadership.
