Lionel Messi’s World Cup Secret: Argentina’s “Sugus” Candy Ritual

Lionel Messi and Argentina’s Secret Weapon: The “Sugus” Candy Superstition Driving World Cup Success
​Led by legendary superstar Lionel Messi, the Argentina national team has maintained a unique pre-match ritual: eating Sugus candies. This tradition, started five years ago by the duo Rodrigo De Paul and Leandro Paredes, has accompanied the Albiceleste through a golden era, including a World Cup victory, back-to-back Copa América titles, and the Finalissima trophy.
​Argentina’s 2026 World Cup Run and Messi’s Historic Record
​Argentina has officially qualified for the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup, currently being co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Following decisive victories against Algeria and Austria, team captain Lionel Messi became the all-time top scorer in World Cup history, reaching an incredible milestone of 18 goals.
​The Origin of the “Sugus” Candy Ritual
​Can Argentina’s recent dominance and Messi’s international success be tied to a simple caramel candy?
​The tradition began during the 2021 Copa América when De Paul and Paredes brought Sugus candies into the locker room. That tournament ended with Argentina lifting its first major trophy in nearly 30 years, marking Messi’s first-ever international title with the senior squad. Since then, the chewy candy has become an essential superstition for the team.
​The Specific Superstitions Behind the Sweet
​The ritual is highly specific for some players. In 2023, Leandro Paredes revealed his precise routine:
​”I always choose exactly seven pieces of Sugus—four blue ones and three yellow ones.”
​It isn’t just the players who are hooked on the sweet tradition. Argentina’s manager, Lionel Scaloni, participates heavily in the ritual as well, previously admitting that he consumes around 40 pieces of Sugus candy before matches.