Lionel Messi has officially announced the end of his international career with Argentina.
Date: August 31, 2026
The 39-year-old forward steps away after 207 appearances and 125 goals, both national-team records.
Messi made his senior Argentina debut in 2005. His international journey included painful final defeats before Argentina eventually captured the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 World Cup, the 2024 Copa América and the 2022 Finalissima.
Argentina returned to the World Cup final in 2026 but lost to Spain.
Messi described the decision as painful while expressing pride in everything he accomplished with the national team.
His departure closes one of international soccer’s most decorated careers. He will continue playing club soccer with Inter Miami.
Argentina’s soccer federation, former teammates and supporters around the world have responded with tributes recognizing his leadership, longevity and historic accomplishments.
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