Infantino pays emotional tribute to Messi after Argentina retirement: “He has inspired millions”

Lionel Messi’s decision to end his Argentina career prompted tributes across football, with FIFA president Gianni Infantino describing the forward’s international journey as extraordinary.

Messi announced the decision through social media on Monday. The move had reportedly been under consideration for some time and followed personal difficulties, including the recent death of his father. He leaves the national team after winning every major title available to him and finishing his international career with a World Cup runner-up medal in 2026.

Argentina’s captain played in six World Cups and finally won the tournament at Qatar 2022. His time in the blue-and-white shirt also established him as one of the country’s biggest sporting idols.

Infantino paid tribute in a social media post accompanied by photographs of the two men. He praised Messi as the World Cup’s top scorer, Argentina’s most-capped player and the record holder for appearances in World Cup history. “Your magical talent and humility will be remembered forever,” Infantino wrote, thanking Messi for the memories he created while representing Argentina and for bringing fans together around the world.

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Congratulations @leomessi on an extraordinary international career that has inspired millions of people and redefined our beautiful sport. World Cup champion in 2022, all-time top scorer and the player with the most appearances for Argentina, as well as the record holder for most matches played in FIFA World Cup history: your magical talent and humility will be remembered forever. Thank you for every unforgettable memory defending the colors of @afaseleccion and for uniting fans from every corner of the world. I wish you all the best in your next chapter.