Spain-Argentina Finalissima in Qatar cancelled

The Finalissima between Argentina and Spain has been cancelled because of the war in the Middle East.

European champions Spain were set to play Copa America champions Argentina in Qatar on 26 March.

Uefa said proposals to hold the match at Real Madrid’s Bernabeu, or play a two-legged game in Madrid and Buenos Aires, were rejected by Argentina.

Uefa said: “Due to the current political situation in the region, the Finalissima cannot be played as hoped in Qatar.

BBC Sport has contacted the Argentine FA for comment.

Uefa said: “Argentina made a counter suggestion to play the game after the World Cup but, as Spain has no available dates, that option had to be ruled out.”

The Spanish FA said it had “worked intensively” to get the game on in any format possible, whether in Spain or at a neutral venue.

It said: “Spain was prepared to play as it has always been stated. They set no conditions.

“Spain, together with Uefa, has offered all possibilities.”

On Saturday the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Formula 1 Grands Prix due to be held in April were cancelled.

Formula 1 said it is not safe to stage the races because of the conflict across the region.