Lionel Messi says retiring from international football

Lionel Messi notes retiring from international football. AFP Published August 31, 2026 Updated August 31, 2026 08: 39pm.

Key points

• Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory by winning the 2022 final against France in a penalty shootout in Qatar.
• Lionel Messi remarked on Monday he is retiring from international football after leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup final in July.
• After the death of his father Jorge in August, Messi had stated he had "serious doubts" regarding continuing to play football of any sort for "much longer".
• "It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I understand that it is the right time, " Messi, 39, wrote on Instagram.
• "After what happened with my father, I am more convinced than ever, " he continued.

In the post, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner notes that he wrote these words two days after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on July 19.

Messi swore that he "always gave everything" to his fans and "not just during these last few years when we won everything, but before that as well".

"I always fought and gave my all for this shirt, to bring you joy and make you feel proud to be Argentine through football, " he wrote.

"There isn't much time left, and chapters are gradually coming to a close, and this is one that hurts me a lot, " Messi continued, expressing his love for the Argentine national team.

"I offered everything I had; I have nothing more left to provide. And besides, there are some particularly talented young players coming through who deserve to be there."

As well as his family, coaches and teammates, the football icon expressed gratitude to his fans for their backing over the past two decades.

"Now I'll be one of you, always cheering and supporting from the outside (in good times and bad, even more so), " he continued, addressing his fans.

"I leave with the peace of mind and pride of having given you, together with my teammates, moments we could only have dreamed of. It was crazy to have lived it all with you. I love you!"

Messi led Argentina to World Cup glory by winning the 2022 final against France in a penalty shootout in Qatar. His contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami runs until the end of the 2028 season.

For now, lionel Messi says retiring from international football remains the part of the story worth watching, and further updates are likely as more details are confirmed.