Argentina will pause all men’s and women’s matches in the 10th minute this weekend for a minute’s applause following Lionel Messi’s decision to retire from international football.
On Monday, Messi announced the end of his Argentina career, having set the record for caps (207) and goals (125) for his country.
Messi helped Argentina to three World Cup finals, finally lifting the trophy in 2022 as they beat France on penalties, though a 1-0 defeat to Spain in this year’s showpiece denied them a successful defence of the crown.
Prior to success at the World Cup in Qatar, Messi lifted his first international trophy with Argentina in 2021 as they ended a 28-year wait for Copa America glory. They subsequently retained that title in 2024.
Only the late Diego Maradona can rival Messi in the realm of Argentina legends, and the country’s football association (AFA) announced the special tribute to him on Thursday.
A statement from the AFA read: “In tribute and homage to Lionel Messi’s career with the Argentina national team, at the 10th minute of play in all matches the referees will stop the game and a general minute of applause will be held.
“We look forward to seeing you on the fields – join us in this recognition!”
Lionel Messi: Argentina icon’s retirement statement
“After all this time that has passed since the final, and after much thought, I want to announce to everyone that I am retiring from the national team,” Messi said.
“It was a decision that hurt – and still hurts – to my core, but I understand that it’s the right time.
“I swear that I always gave my all – not just in the last few years when we won everything, but before that, too.
“I always fought and gave everything for this jersey, to bring you joy and make you proud to be Argentinian through football.
“There’s not much time left and chapters are closing, and this is one that hurts me deeply. I love, loved, and will always love being on the national team.
“I’ve given everything I have; I have nothing more to give and, besides, there are some great young players coming up behind me who deserve to be there.”
