Argentina captain Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football, bringing an end to a remarkable 21 year career with the national team.
The 39 year old confirmed his decision on Monday, August 31, 2026, in an emotional statement, saying the decision was painful but that he believed the time had come to step away from the national team.
Messi’s decision comes weeks after he captained Argentina to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where they suffered a 1-0 extra time defeat to Spain. The match proved to be his final appearance for the country.
In his farewell message, Messi said he had always given everything for Argentina and believed the time had come for a new generation of players to take over.
> “It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul but I understand that it is the right time.”
He added that he had “nothing more to give” and said he would now support Argentina from outside the team.
Messi leaves international football as Argentina’s most capped player, with 207 appearances, and its all time leading scorer with 125 goals.
His greatest achievement came at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, where he finally lifted the trophy after Argentina defeated France on penalties in the final.
He also guided Argentina to Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 Finalissima victory over Italy.
The retirement marks the end of one of the most decorated international careers in football history. Messi will, however, continue his club career with Inter Miami, where his contract runs through the 2028 season.
