Football icon Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from the Argentina national team, months after the South American country lost to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in the United States.
The 39-year-old Inter Miami player confirmed the decision in a statement on Instagram on Monday, stating he decided to retire after evaluating his future with the national team after the World Cup final loss to Spain in July.
Messi stressed that the decision was not made lightly but noted now is the right time to retire from international football after making his first appearance for Argentina in 2005.
“After the time that’s passed since the final, thinking about it a lot, I want to let you all know that I’m retiring from the National Team. It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deeply, but I understand it’s the moment.
“I swear I always gave everything — not just these last few years when we won everything, but before too — I always fought and gave my all for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football,” the former Barcelona man said.
During his international career, Messi made 207 appearances for Argentina, scoring 125 goals and winning the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the Copa America on two occasions.
Speaking further, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner thanked his coaches, teammates, fans and family members for supporting him throughout his over two-decade journey with the national team.
“Thank you for all the love these 20 years. I’m going to miss hearing you from the inside so much. Now I’m going to be one more of you, cheering and supporting always from outside (in good times and bad, even more so).
“Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this beautiful but difficult journey. Thanks to each of the coaches, teammates, and officials I got to share this with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments,” he added.