Argentina is cruising toward a potential second consecutive World Cup title, fueled by the stellar performance of Lionel Messi.

While football fans are ecstatic and enjoying the "festival," the reality for ordinary citizens is complicated.

They are unable to fully enjoy the festivities due to record-breaking inflation.

According to a recent study by Argentina's Focus Market, which tracked the prices of food and snacks consumed while watching football matches over the 16-year period from the 2010 South Africa World Cup to the 2026 North and Central America World Cup, prices have soared to astronomical levels, far beyond a simple surge.

The price of "Asado," Argentina's beef barbecue (for four people), which is a staple for watching matches, was only 40 pesos in 2010, but it jumped to 27,385 pesos just before the 2026 World Cup.

This marks a 684-fold increase over 16 years.

The situation is similar for "Picada," a snack platter featuring cheese and jamón (Spanish ham) often enjoyed while watching games.

The price of a single Picada platter (for three people) was 147 pesos during the South Africa tournament, but it has now risen 333-fold to 49,000 pesos.

The price of "Yerba Mate," known as the national tea, has also increased 579-fold, from 5 pesos per 500g pack during the South Africa tournament to 2,893 pesos today.

This record-breaking inflation rate reflects the trajectory of hyperinflation that Argentina has endured.

Argentina's annual inflation rate was around 10.5% in 2010, but it surged to 47.6% during the 2018 Russia World Cup and 94% during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, putting immense pressure on household economies.

The cost of replacing a TV, a common expense for the World Cup, has also risen significantly.

Since the Qatar tournament, the price of 32-inch smart TVs has increased by 648%, and 50 to 55-inch models have risen by 289%.

Meanwhile, Messi, who first stepped onto the World Cup stage during the 2006 Germany World Cup, has scored 5 goals in just two group stage matches of the 2026 North and Central America World Cup, continuing to break the record for the most goals in World Cup history.

(Photo: AP, Yonhap News)