Felipe Contepomi: Argentina Rugby Targets Top-Four Status

Felipe Contepomi says Argentina Rugby is determined to establish itself among the world’s elite as the Pumas prepare to face England in the Nations Championship, drawing inspiration from Lionel Messi’s relentless pursuit of excellence.

Argentina will host England on Saturday in Santiago del Estero, hoping to continue the progress that has seen the Pumas reach three Rugby World Cup semi-finals in the past five tournaments. Contepomi, who played a key role in Argentina’s historic 2007 World Cup campaign, believes the team’s long-term goal is to become a consistent top-four nation.

The former fly-half said Messi’s mindset continues to inspire the national rugby team, highlighting excellence, resilience and consistency as qualities every player should embrace.

While football remains Argentina’s dominant sport, Contepomi believes rugby has experienced remarkable growth across the country.

“Amateur rugby in Argentina is booming,” he said, explaining that clubs continue to expand every year and the sport now reaches communities across every province.

Although rugby traditionally developed through private schools and middle-class communities, Contepomi said participation now extends across all social backgrounds, reflecting the sport’s increasing popularity nationwide.

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Buenos Aires remains Argentina’s main rugby centre, while nearby Tucuman has become one of the country’s strongest rugby regions. Contepomi even described Tucuman as the only province where rugby rivals football in popularity.

Argentina’s rise in international rugby has come despite the absence of a fully professional domestic club competition.

The Jaguares competed in Super Rugby between 2016 and 2020 before financial challenges forced the franchise to close. Since then, Super Rugby Americas has emerged as an important pathway for developing young players into international professionals.

Contepomi praised the competition for preparing emerging talent, revealing that around 20 players have progressed from the regional tournament into the national team over the past two years.

One of those success stories is Leicester Tigers forward Joaquin Moro, who developed through Pampas XV before making the move to English club rugby.

Argentina enter Saturday’s fixture ranked seventh in the world after mixed results in the Nations Championship. The Pumas suffered a heavy defeat to Scotland before responding with an improved performance against Wales.

Contepomi acknowledged that assembling his squad remains a significant challenge because many Argentine internationals play for clubs across Europe and the Southern Hemisphere. Limited preparation time often affects the team’s performance, but he insisted it is a reality the Pumas must manage rather than an excuse.

The Argentina coach stressed that reaching Rugby World Cup semi-finals is no longer enough. He wants his team to prove its quality every season by consistently finishing among the world’s top four in the international rankings.

England arrive in Argentina with confidence after winning both Tests during last year’s tour and extending their winning streak over the Pumas to five matches. Argentina have won only one of their past 16 meetings with England, highlighting the scale of the challenge facing the hosts.

Saturday’s match will take place at the Estadio Único Madre de Ciudades in Santiago del Estero, where Argentina have previously recorded victories over Scotland and South Africa.

Contepomi expects a passionate atmosphere, particularly because the stadium is located close to rugby-loving Tucuman. He believes Argentine supporters will create a vibrant environment if the Pumas give them reason to celebrate.

The fixture also follows tensions from the teams’ last meeting in November, when Contepomi criticised England flanker Tom Curry after an incident in the tunnel.

However, the Argentina coach has now moved on from the disagreement. He praised Curry as a world-class player and publicly apologised if his earlier comments caused offence, insisting he holds no personal grievance against the England forward.

Argentina also continue to pursue their ambition of hosting the 2035 Rugby World Cup, a move that could significantly accelerate the sport’s popularity across the country.

With growing participation, an expanding player pathway and continued success on the international stage, the Pumas believe they are moving closer to becoming one of rugby’s true global powers.