Matches across Argentina will be paused for one minute this weekend to mark Lionel Messi’s retirement from international football.
Matches across the nation’s men’s and women’s divisions and disciplines will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) said the gesture was to honour and recognise Messi’s career with the national team.
Stadiums with video boards will also show a tribute before kick-off. The video is based on a montage released by the AFA on social media after Messi announced his retirement.
Messi confirmed on Monday that the 2026 World Cup final against Spain had been his last appearance for Argentina. He is retiring at the age of 39 after 21 years with the senior national team.
“I gave it my all; I have nothing left to give,” Messi wrote on Instagram. “It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts deep down – but I understand that the time has come.”
Messi made his Argentina debut in 2005 and went on to become the country’s record goalscorer with 125 goals. He played at six World Cups and won the tournament in 2022, when Argentina beat France in the final to claim their first World Cup since 1986.
He also holds the World Cup records for appearances, with 34 matches, and victories, with 23.
The AFA said on Wednesday: “For the upcoming matchday across all men’s and women’s divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi’s career with the Argentina national team.”
The tribute will take place during the next domestic matchday. The AFA’s arrangements apply across all of the country’s football competitions.
