Football matches across Argentina will pause this weekend to honour Lionel Messi following his retirement from international football.
The Argentine Football Association will stop matches in all divisions after 10 minutes of the first half. Fans will then give Messi a one minute ovation.
Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team on August 31. The 39 year old ended an international career that began in August 2005.
His final appearance came against Spain in the 2026 World Cup final on July 19. Argentina lost the match 1 to 0.
Messi leaves international football as Argentina’s record holder for both appearances and goals. He played 207 matches and scored 125 goals for his country.
He helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024. He also won Olympic gold in 2008.
Messi remained a key player for Argentina until the end of his international career. He scored eight goals and provided four assists at the 2026 World Cup.
His retirement, however, does not mark the end of his playing career.
Messi will continue to play club football for Inter Miami. His current contract runs until the end of 2028.
