Argentina Orders Nationwide Match Tribute for Retiring Lionel Messi
Argentina’s football association has ordered a one-minute applause in the 10th minute of every domestic match this weekend to honour Lionel Messi following his international retirement.
What we know
- The tribute will take place across every men’s and women’s division and competition in Argentina.
- Clubs have also been told to use stadium screens to show footage from Messi’s Argentina career.
- Messi confirmed on Monday that Argentina’s 2026 World Cup final defeat to Spain was his last match for the national team.
- The 39-year-old said the choice was painful but unavoidable, writing that he had given everything and had nothing more to offer.
- Messi made his senior Argentina debut in 2005 and leaves as the country’s record scorer with 125 goals.
- He played at six World Cups and led Argentina to the 2022 title, ending the nation’s 36-year wait for the trophy.
What happens next
The coordinated tribute will be staged during the coming domestic matchday, with games halted after 10 minutes for the applause. Stadiums will then display highlights from Messi’s 21-year senior international career.
