Argentina star Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, following the team’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.
Messi shared a handwritten note on his Instagram Page confirming his departure from international duty.
He revealed he initially wrote the letter on June 21, two days after the World Cup final, but delayed publishing it due to his father Jorge Messi’s declining health and subsequent passing on August 8.
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The social media post said: “After the time that has passed since the final, and after giving it a lot of thought, I want to let everyone know that I am retiring from the Argentina national team…
“It was a decision that hurt — and still hurts deep down — but I understand that the time has come. I swear to you that I always gave it my all — not just in these last few years when we won everything, but before that too; I always fought and left everything on the field for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football.
“Time is running short, chapters come to a close, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, have loved, and will always love being part of the national team. I’ve given everything I had; I have nothing left to give, and besides, there are some great young players coming up who deserve to be here.
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“Thank you for all the affection over these past 20 years. I will miss hearing you from the pitch so much. Now I’ll be just one of you, cheering and supporting from the outside (through the good times and the bad — especially the bad).
“Thank you to my family for always being there, for accompanying me on this journey — so beautiful, yet so difficult. Thank you to every coach, teammate, and official I’ve shared this path with. I take with me unforgettable memories and moments.
“I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you — alongside my teammates — moments we once only dreamed of. It was an incredible experience to live this with you all. I love you!
“Thank you, God, for making me Argentine.
“Let’s go, Argentina!
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“*I wrote these words on July 21st, two days after the final. Today, after what happened with my dad, I am even more convinced than before.”
He finishes his international career with 125 goals in 207 appearances, having led Argentina to victory at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, alongside two Copa América titles.
Messi has not announced any immediate plans to retire from club football and continues to play for Major League Soccer side Inter Miami CF, where he recently scored four goals in a 7-1 win against CF Montréal.
