Lionel Messi Retires From International Football at 39
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football at the age of 39, bringing an end to a remarkable career with the national team.
Messi made the announcement on Monday, weeks after leading Argentina to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, where they suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain. He said the decision was difficult but that he believed it was the right time to step away from international football.
“It was a decision that hurt and still hurts deep in my soul, but I understand that it is the right time,” Messi said in a statement shared on Instagram.
The Argentine superstar said he had always given everything for the national team, not only during the period in which Argentina enjoyed major international success but throughout his entire career.
Messi led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar, defeating France on penalties in the final, after previously helping the country win the 2021 Copa América and the 2024 Copa América. His latest appearance in a World Cup final came in July 2026, when Argentina narrowly lost to Spain.
The announcement also comes shortly after the death of his father, Jorge Messi, in August. Following his father’s death, Messi had expressed uncertainty about whether he would continue playing football for much longer.
In his farewell message, Messi thanked Argentina supporters, his family, coaches, teammates and officials who had been part of his international career. He said he would miss being part of the national team but would continue supporting Argentina from the outside.
“There isn’t much time left, and different chapters are coming to an end. This is one that hurts me a lot,” Messi said, adding that he left the national team with “peace and pride” after sharing unforgettable moments with his teammates and supporters.
Messi also acknowledged the emergence of younger players who, he said, deserved opportunities with the national team. He expressed gratitude for the support he had received throughout his two-decade international career and ended his message by declaring his enduring love for Argentina.
Messi’s international retirement marks the end of an era for one of football’s most decorated players, who leaves the national team after a career defined by major trophies, record-breaking performances and a long-awaited World Cup triumph.
At club level, Messi remains contracted to Major League Soccer side Inter Miami until the end of the 2028 season.