In a heartfelt response to Lionel Messi’s decision to retire from international football, the Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced that all matches in the country will pause in the 10th minute for a full minute of applause in tribute to the legendary player.
A Nation Pays Tribute
The 39-year-old Inter Miami star revealed earlier this week that he would no longer represent the Argentine national team, following his participation in the World Cup this summer. Messi described the decision as ‘painful to the depths of my soul,’ but acknowledged that ‘the time has come’ to step away from international duty.
Messi led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup, as well as the Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024. His announcement has saddened fans across Argentina and around the globe.
AFA’s Directive
On Thursday evening, the AFA confirmed that all matches ‘in all categories’ across the country would pause when the game reaches the 10th minute, allowing for a full minute of applause. The number 10 holds special significance for Messi, as he wore it for most of his clubs and the national team.
The directive applies to men’s and women’s football, as well as futsal and beach soccer. The AFA also stated that stadiums equipped with screens must broadcast the federation’s institutional video before matches begin.
Already in Motion
The tribute has already begun, with a minute of applause held on Wednesday during an Argentine Cup match between Vélez Sarsfield and Boca Juniors.
Messi’s Legacy
This summer’s World Cup was Messi’s sixth, making him only the second player, after Brazil’s Cafu, to appear in three men’s World Cup finals. The former Barcelona star holds the record for most appearances with the Argentine national team, with 207 caps, and is also the all-time leading scorer with 125 goals.
As Argentina prepares to honor its greatest football icon, the minute of applause serves as a fitting tribute to a career that has inspired millions.