Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a career with Argentina that spanned more than two decades. The 39-year-old made the announcement following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final in July, where they lost 1-0 after extra time. Messi revealed that he made the decision […]
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Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a career with Argentina that spanned more than two decades.
The 39-year-old made the announcement following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final in July, where they lost 1-0 after extra time.
Messi revealed that he made the decision two days after the final but delayed announcing it following the illness and subsequent death of his father, Jorge Messi.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner ends his international career with 207 appearances and 125 goals for Argentina.
Messi captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and was named player of the tournament. He also helped his country win other major international honours during his career.
In his retirement statement, Messi said the decision was painful but that he believed the time had come to allow a new generation of players to take their place in the national team.
He thanked his family, teammates, coaches and Argentine supporters for accompanying him throughout his international career.
Messi will continue his club career with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami.
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