Dressed in white and light blue jerseys, they sang songs and posed for photos with a huge flag, before welcoming four of their compatriots who had come by bike from South Africa.
To join the host country of the Football World Cup, which begins on November 20, Leandro Blanco, Matias Villarroel, Silvio Gatti and Lucas Ledezma have cycled 10,500 kilometers since May 15.
"It was our dream that motivated us (...) that of Argentina world champion and Leo lifting the trophy on December 18", at the end of what should be the last World Cup of the career of the striker, Blanco explained.
"The emotion we feel is immense (...) to be here in Doha and for this party."
Argentinian cyclist Lucas Ledezema and his teammates celebrate their arrival in Doha on November 7, 2022 after a 10,500 km journey before the 2022 World Cup in Qatar Kirill KUDRYAVTSEV AFP/Archives
"We have a lot of confidence, a lot of hope, that's why we did this madness," added Ledezma.
Among the supporters present was also Ines Caillava, 22, who came to work in Qatar to be able to attend the World Cup, not having the means to afford a trip because of the economic crisis in her country of origin.
Some staff members of the Argentine selection are due to arrive in Qatar overnight from Monday to Tuesday, before a friendly match in Abu Dhabi on November 16.
The Albiceleste, unbeaten in 35 matches since 2019, are in Group C of the group stage, along with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland.
She will start her competition on November 22 against the Saudi team.
Argentina won the World Cup in 1978 and 1986. Messi's best result at a World Cup was second place in 2014.
© 2022 AFP