Lionel Messi has announced his final departure from the Argentine National Team. In a heartfelt handwritten letter shared on Instagram, Messi marked the end of his 20-year journey with the Albiceleste, a career filled with some of the most celebrated moments in South American soccer.
"After much consideration since the final, I want to share with everyone that I am retiring from the national team," penned the iconic player from Rosario. His message was captured in three notebooks placed on a sofa, accompanied by a golden pen.
Although the letter was originally composed on July 21, just two days after the 2026 World Cup final, Messi waited until this Monday to reveal it. The timing was influenced by a deeply personal tragedy: the death of his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away on August 8 at the age of 68 in Rosario's Sanatorio Centro. "Today, after what happened with my dad, I'm more certain than ever," Messi noted at the bottom of the letter.
The passing of Jorge Messi, who also served as his son's representative for many years, marked a poignant turning point, prompting Messi to conclude this chapter.
Reflecting on His Decision
In his farewell, Messi candidly expressed the reasons behind his choice: "I've given everything I have, and it's time for the younger players coming up to take their turn." He acknowledged that the decision "hurts deeply," but realized it was the right moment to step aside.
Argentina reached the final of the 2026 World Cup on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, where they were defeated by Spain 1-0 in extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring in the 106th minute. Despite being 39 years old, Messi finished the tournament with an impressive tally of eight goals and four assists, equaling Cafú's record as the only player to compete in three World Cup finals.
After the loss, Messi was visibly devastated on the field, writing, "The pain is immense, and it will take time for this wound to heal."
A Permanent Farewell?
This is not the first time the forward has announced his intention to leave the national team. In June 2016, following a loss in the Copa América Centenario final against Chile, he made a similar announcement, which he later reversed. However, the tone of this letter and the personal circumstances suggest that this decision is final.
With 125 goals in 207 matches, Messi holds the record as the top scorer in the history of the Albiceleste. Under his leadership, Argentina secured victories in the Copa América 2021, the Finalissima 2022, the Qatar World Cup 2022, and the Copa América 2024.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni praised Messi as "pure history," a "legend," and "the greatest footballer the world has ever seen," emphasizing that reaching a World Cup final at 39 is "incredible."
Messi concluded his letter with a promise and gratitude: "I leave with peace and pride, knowing that I, together with my teammates, have given you unforgettable moments. It was a dream to share this with you. I love you all! Thank you, God, for making me Argentine. Let’s go, Argentina!"
Understanding Messi's Decision to Retire
What prompted Lionel Messi to retire from the Argentine National Team?
Messi's decision was influenced by the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, and his personal reflection on his career and the emerging younger players.
How did Argentina perform in the 2026 World Cup?
Argentina reached the final but were defeated by Spain 1-0 in extra time at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Has Messi retired from the national team before?
Yes, Messi previously announced his retirement in 2016 after the Copa América Centenario final but later reversed his decision.