Brazil President Lula lightens mood with Messi transfer joke after World Cup draw

The comment reflects growing frustration mixed with humour after a flat opener for Brazil

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva arrives at the Hotel Royal ahead of the start of the G7 summit, in Evian, France, Jun 15, 2026. REUTERS

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has joked about signing Argentina’s Lionel Messi to boost Brazil's World Cup campaign, reports Radio France Internationale (RFI).

Asked by journalists on Wednesday about the national team's form following a 1-1 opening-match draw against Morocco, he laughed and said: "I was thinking about signing Messi to play for Brazil."

The comment highlights the stark contrast between the fierce rivals, with Messi having scored a hat-trick against Algeria on Tuesday, while the five-time world champions displayed several frailties in their opener.

Lula, however, downplayed the initial setback, insisting drawing with Morocco -- whom he labelled Brazil's toughest group opponents -- was not a "big deal".

Remaining optimistic ahead of Friday’s fixture against Haiti, he added: "They say that whenever Brazil is heavily doubted, they win the World Cup... let's see."