On 14/5, Miguel Silio, 56, Yamandu Martinez, 49, and Vicente Conculini, 29, arrived in Dallas, where residents welcomed them at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Conculini expressed gratitude, stating, "We appreciate this welcome after 10 months of traveling 16,000 km through 17 countries."

Their journey began on 16/8/2025 from Gualeguaychu City Hall, Argentina. The group cycled north towards North America, entering the US via the Laredo border on 1/5. The only part of their extensive route not covered by bicycle was a flight over the Panama Canal. Their path took them through numerous countries, including: Uruguay, Brazil, Paraguay, Bolivia, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Guatemala, Belize, and Mexico.

Yamandu Martinez (left), Vicente Conculini (center), and Juan Miguel Silio pass through Akard Plaza, downtown Dallas, on 14/5. *Shafkat Anowar/The Dallas Morning News*

To embark on this journey, Yamandu resigned from his job in Argentina. Vicente left his hospitality position in the Netherlands. Miguel, a lawyer and notary, continued working remotely. His wife flew to meet him in Colombia, Peru, Panama, and Mexico at various points during the trip.

Their daily routine involved waking at 6h, studying maps, and having breakfast before cycling 100-145 km. Each traveler carried 36-40 kg of luggage, including tents, sleeping bags, water, food, repair tools, and clothing. For overnight stays, they often sought shelter in churches, schools, or local clubs. Throughout their journey, the trio encountered varied weather, from freezing temperatures in Bolivia to scorching heat in Paraguay.

Vicente Conculini, Yamandu Martinez, and Miguel Silio (from left to right) cycle through Misiones province, northern Argentina, in August 2025. *Miguel Silio*

The inspiration for this epic journey arose after the 2022 World Cup. The group meticulously planned their route and necessary equipment. For both Vicente and Yamandu, this marks their first opportunity to witness the world's premier football tournament live. Vicente emphasized their motivation, stating, "For Argentinians, football is deeply intertwined with our national identity, and we are determined to see the World Cup that concludes Messi's career."

Despite completing their arduous journey, the trio has yet to secure tickets to watch their national team compete. Conculini revealed that the group attempted to purchase tickets five times through the FIFA lottery system but was unsuccessful due to poor internet connection and overwhelming demand. Their final hope rests on "black market" ticket prices decreasing closer to the tournament's start.

Miguel expressed optimism, stating, "I am confident I will find tickets at the last minute, just as I did for the two previous World Cups."

Three Argentinian fans rest at Akard Plaza in downtown Dallas on 14/5, before continuing their journey. *Shafkat Anowar/The Dallas Morning News*

Argentina's group stage matches in the US are scheduled for 16/6 against Algeria in Kansas City, 22/6 against Austria in Arlington, and their final group game against Jordan in Santa Clara.

Miguel is in discussions with the Argentinian Football Association, seeking permission to access the team's training ground in Kansas City.

Following a day of rest in Dallas, the group plans to travel to Kansas City. There, they are considering purchasing a used oto to follow the national team's progress. Their exact itinerary will depend on Argentina's performance, potentially leading them to Miami or New York/New Jersey. Once the tournament concludes, the trio will fly back to Argentina.

By Minh Phuong (Based on reports from The Dallas Morning News, KMBC Kansas City)