'VAR-gentina?': Anti-Argentina conspiracy theories out in force at World Cup
batimes.com.ar
Argentina's run to the World Cup semi-finals has sparked viral conspiracy theories claiming the tournament is rigged in their favour — but what's really driving the suspicion?
Conspiracy TheoryIn-Group BiasAvailability HeuristicSocial Identity Theory
Theory Briefing
- Conspiracy theories labelled 'VAR-gentina' allege referees and video review decisions are systematically favouring the defending champions, all without evidence.
- Argentina's status as reigning World Cup champions makes them a natural lightning rod for suspicion when close calls go their way.
- The theories spread rapidly online, showing how a high-stakes tournament can turn routine officiating controversies into coordinated narratives of corruption.
- Rival fans uniting around a shared grievance — rather than any single incident — suggests group identity is shaping what people choose to believe.