Entertainment
Argentine soccer leagues to honor Lionel Messi with mid-match tributes following international retirement
Referees across national divisions will pause matches at the 10-minute mark for a minute of applause celebrating the national team captain.
The short version
- The Argentine Football Association announced nationwide mid-match tributes for Lionel Messi following his retirement from international soccer.
- Referees across men's and women's professional leagues will stop play at the 10-minute mark for a minute of applause during the upcoming match round.
- The 39-year-old forward concluded a 21-year international career marked by 207 appearances, 125 goals, and a 2022 World Cup victory.
- Messi remains active at the club level with Major League Soccer team Inter Miami.
Key facts
- The Argentine Football Association announced that referees will stop play at the 10-minute mark of all upcoming matches in the Clausura tournament and other national leagues for a minute of applause.[Associated Press]
- The planned tributes apply across both men's and women's soccer leagues in Argentina.[Associated Press]
- Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team after 21 years of service.[Associated Press]
- During his international career, Messi set national records with 207 appearances and 125 goals, winning the 2022 World Cup and playing in two other finals.[Associated Press]
- Messi continues to compete at the club level with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.[Associated Press]