Argentina captain Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, closing a remarkable chapter with the national team.

The 39-year-old Inter Miami forward made his final appearance for Argentina in the World Cup final, where the defending champions were defeated 1-0 by Spain after extra time.

Messi’s sixth World Cup campaign saw him join an elite group of players to feature in three men’s World Cup finals, alongside Brazil’s Cafu and another player. He had previously led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title and finished runner-up to Germany in 2014.

Confirming his decision on Monday, Messi said retiring from international football “hurts deep in my soul" but added that he recognised the time had come to step aside.

Messi concludes his international career as Argentina’s record appearance holder and leading goalscorer, with 207 caps and 125 goals.

He also departs having amassed an impressive collection of honours, including the 2022 World Cup, Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024, and two World Cup Golden Ball awards.

At the 2026 tournament Messi scored eight goals and provided four assists, finishing second in the Golden Boot race to France captain Kylian Mbappé. He also claimed the Silver Ball, behind Golden Ball winner Rodri.

The 2026 World Cup marked Messi’s sixth appearance at the competition, equalling Cristiano Ronaldo’s record for most men’s World Cup tournaments. The 2010 World Cup in South Africa remains the only edition in which he did not score.

Argentina struggled to fashion clear chances against Spain in the final, recording only two shots across 120 minutes. Messi’s effort was blocked before Ferran Torres struck the decisive goal in the 106th minute to hand Spain the title.

After the defeat, Messi reflected on the disappointment while also acknowledging what Argentina had achieved during his final World Cup campaign.

Messi became Argentina captain in 2011 and ultimately delivered the World Cup trophy that had long eluded him. His 2022 success in Qatar, where he scored seven goals, completed his set of major international honours after Copa América victories in 2021 and 2024.

His achievements with Argentina also contributed to him winning an eighth Ballon d’Or, extending his record for the most wins of the prize.

Although Messi has ended his international career, he will continue at club level. He remains under contract with Inter Miami for a further two years and is expected to resume his MLS career following the World Cup.

Messi had previously indicated he would keep playing until he could no longer perform at the required standard, enjoy the game or contribute to his team-mates.

His announcement therefore closes the Argentina chapter of one of football’s most decorated careers, while his club career continues in the United States.