Fans flood Dallas park for Messi-led Argentina rally

Hundreds of Argentina supporters packed Klyde Warren Park on Sunday, chanting and waving flags in a spirited pre-match rally ahead of the national team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup games in North Texas.

The gathering, known in Argentina as a “banderazo,” brought fans together to celebrate and support their team before its first local match. Argentina is set to face Austria at 12 p.m. Monday, June 22, and Jordan at 9 p.m. Saturday, June 27, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, temporarily renamed Dallas Stadium for the tournament.

Fans began arriving early Sunday despite temperatures expected to climb into the low 90s. By late afternoon, the park was filled with a sea of light blue and white jerseys, Argentina’s national colors. Dallas police closed nearby streets as attendance surged.

The rally featured drums, chants, and flags, including images of star players such as Messi and late legend Diego Maradona. Supporters jumped in unison, creating a rhythmic energy that echoed across downtown.

“Go for it, champ! Go for it, champ!” fans shouted again and again, directing their chants toward Messi and the national squad.

Organizers estimate that about 100,000 Argentina fans will travel to North Texas for the World Cup matches. Two of the largest supporter groups, Hinchas Argentinos and La Banda de Argentina, selected Klyde Warren Park as the rally site.

For many attendees, the event carried personal significance. Mendoza, a fan who once lived in North Carolina, said returning to the United States for a World Cup made the experience especially meaningful.

The park also holds historical importance for local supporters. On Dec. 18, 2022, hundreds gathered at the same location to celebrate Argentina’s World Cup victory over France in Qatar.

Banderazos are a longstanding tradition among Argentina fans, typically held the day before matches. The gatherings feature coordinated displays of support, including music, dancing and collective chanting.

Another rally is scheduled for Friday, June 26, at 6 p.m. at Klyde Warren Park, as fans prepare to cheer on Argentina once again.

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