Controversy in Argentina over AI advertisement with Maradona and family authorization

An advertisement that has sparked controversy in Argentina shows Diego Armando Maradona, created with Artificial Intelligence, promoting sports betting, with the authorization of his family, during the matches of the 2026 World Cup.

Clara Montoya | Fri, 06/19/2026 - 05:40
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Controversy in Argentina over AI advertisement with Maradona and family authorization
Controversy in Argentina over AI advertisement with Maradona and family authorization

The advertisement featuring the image and voice of Maradona generated by AI to promote sports betting has sparked a debate in Argentina. The controversy revolves around the authorization from the star's family to use his image in this context.

Controversial comments and reactions

The vulgar phrase uttered by the virtual Maradona has fueled the controversy, along with the selling of image rights to a betting company. Despite the family's approval, some of the footballer's children disagreed with the decision.

Divided opinions on social media

Social media has been filled with comments against the advertisement, questioning the use of Maradona's image to promote betting and criticizing the vulgarity of the words used by the footballer's avatar. Even his former partner, Rocío Oliva, expressed her discontent with the situation on a television program.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Polémica en Argentina por anuncio con Maradona de IA y autorización familiar