Lionel Messi has officially ended his career with the Argentina national team, announcing his retirement via Instagram over a month after the 2026 World Cup final. The 39-year-old steps away holding Argentina’s records with 125 goals in 207 international appearances.
Messi Announces Retirement After 2026 World Cup Final
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner shared his decision on social media, writing that the choice is “a decision that hurt—and still hurts deeply inside—but I understand that the time has come.” Messi revealed that he originally drafted the statement on July 21, 2026, just two days after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain after extra time in the World Cup final at East Rutherford. The passing of his father, Jorge Messi, on August 8 at age 68 reinforced his certainty that stepping down is the correct path.
“I swear to you, I always gave everything—not only in recent years when we won everything, but also before that,” Messi stated in his Instagram post. “I always fought and gave my all for this shirt to bring you joy.”
Historic Legacy with the Albiceleste
Messi’s international career spans over two decades, featuring six World Cup tournaments and three appearances in World Cup finals. He led Argentina to victory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, capturing the country’s third global title, alongside two Copa América triumphs. His resume also includes runners-up finishes at the 2014 World Cup and the 2026 tournament in North America, where he contributed eight goals and four assists.
This marks Messi’s second international retirement. He previously stepped away from the national team in 2016 following a loss in the Copa América final, though he reversed that decision shortly afterward. A return from this retirement is unlikely. “I leave with the certainty and pride of having given you dream moments together with my teammates. It was crazy to experience that with you. I love you!” Messi wrote.
Club Career and Future Outlook
Following his international departure, Messi’s competitive focus remains on Major League Soccer. He is under contract with Inter Miami through the end of 2028, an agreement he entered in the summer of 2023. At age 39, he continues to produce at an elite level, recently notching four goals in a single match.
Tributes poured in from across the football world following his announcement. Argentine Football Association President Claudio Tapia expressed gratitude on social media, stating, “There are no words in the dictionary that would be enough to thank you for everything you have given us, captain.” Messi’s wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, also shared support online, writing, “You will always be the best. Not only because of your talent, but also because you never stopped being yourself.”