Samuel L. Jackson sparks controversy by labeling Argentina racist after World Cup final

Samuel L. Jackson posted a message on Instagram calling Argentina "one of the most racist countries in the world" after the 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain, igniting a fierce online debate.

The accusation

Jackson shared a post from SEC Black Alumni Network urging Black people not to support Argentina, accompanied by an image of his character Stephen from Django Unchained wearing an Argentina shirt. Source: Clarín The post claimed Argentina had been "historically one of the most racist countries, if not the most racist, in the world." Source: Clarín

The backlash

Argentine figures responded swiftly. Actress Bárbara Lombardo invited Jackson to visit Argentina, stating, "Imagino que nunca visitó Argentina, porque si lo hubiera hecho, creo que habría conocido gente cálida, amable y acogedora." Source: El Nacional Writer Flor Freijo criticized Jackson's hypocrisy, noting the U.S. only abolished segregation in 1965 and now deports migrants violently. Source: Clarín

Other celebrities

Actor Mike Colter also criticized Argentina, alleging racism and sparking further debate. Source: Infobae Meanwhile, singer Cazzu acknowledged racism exists in Argentina but argued it differs from U.S. racism, focusing on class and origin discrimination. Source: Infobae

The 'lista negra'

Social media users compiled a "blacklist" of celebrities perceived as disrespecting Argentina after the final, including Samuel L. Jackson, Rosalía, Niall Horan, and Pedro Pascal.