10/07/2026 22:07 - Economia
In Argentina, football is almost a religion. The passion of the fans is not only felt in the stadiums and homes but is also strongly reflected in the local economy. According to data from the private sector, every time the Argentine National Team (affectionately known as the 'Albiceleste' for their sky blue and white stripes) plays a match in the 2026 World Cup, consumer habits shift drastically.
When the referee blows the starting whistle, economic activity nearly paralyzes. According to reports from Mercado Pago (Argentina's leading digital payment platform), digital payments at businesses drop by 80% during the 90+ minutes of play. The stillness is so profound that even QR code payments on public transport (local buses known as 'colectivos' and the subway or 'subtes') decrease by 35% compared to an average day.
The strategy of Argentines is clear: stock up before kickoff. In the three hours prior to each match, QR collections increased by 62% and person-to-person transfers grew by 32%. The star categories for these purchases are dairy, bakery items, and, of course, beverages.
The comfort of gathering at home drove delivery apps to historic records. According to PedidosYa (the most popular food delivery app in the country), demand in the hours before matches grew by an average of 60%. Ahead of the crucial match against Egypt on 07/07/2026, orders skyrocketed by 115%.
What do Argentines order to watch their team?
Once the match ends and joy (or relief) takes over the fans, activity returns to its usual levels. From 3:00 PM of the last game, the sectors with the highest growth were general merchandise, with a 25% rise, and fuel, with a 19% increase.
However, the emotional impact of qualifying for the quarterfinals after defeating Egypt 3-2 brought an unprecedented phenomenon to the tourism sector. The online travel agency Despegar recorded a staggering 3311% increase in flight searches from Buenos Aires to Kansas City, the venue for the upcoming match against Switzerland on 11/07/2026 at 22:00 hs (Argentine time). Additionally, flight searches to Miami grew by 142%, driven by fans already in the United States.
Every step Argentina takes in the World Championship awakens renewed enthusiasm among fans, who are looking for ways to be present at the next event.
Alfredo S. Quiroga
