Sport
Argentine Football League Honors Lionel Messi Following International Retirement
The Argentine Football Association has announced a tribute to Lionel Messi across all league matches this weekend to mark his retirement from international football.
According to a report by Khaosod Online Thailand, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has confirmed that all matches in the national football league this weekend will feature a special tribute to Lionel Messi. The 39-year-old superstar officially announced his retirement from international duty on August 31, concluding a storied career that included 207 appearances and 125 goals.
To honor his legacy, matches will be paused for one minute at the 10-minute mark, allowing fans and players to applaud the athlete who famously wore the number 10 jersey for his country. Messi’s international career was highlighted by major victories, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the 2021 and 2024 Copa América, and the 2022 Finalissima.
For travelers or residents currently in Argentina, this tribute may result in brief, scheduled interruptions during football matches throughout the weekend. While the AFA has confirmed the logistics of this tribute, it remains to be seen how fans will further commemorate the player's departure beyond these planned pauses. Messi previously announced a retirement from the national team in 2016, only to return in 2018, though this current announcement follows his final departure after a long and decorated tenure.