Archive · 3 Sep 2026
Argentina Football Matches Pause Nationwide to Honor Retired Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi has decided to stop playing for Argentina’s national team.
The Argentine Football Association wants to celebrate his career.
During matches on September 5 and 6, referees will stop the game in the 10th minute.
Fans will applaud Messi for one minute.
The tribute will happen in the Clausura tournament and other men’s and women’s competitions.
Stadiums with video screens will show pictures of Messi before matches begin.
Messi played 207 games for Argentina and scored 125 goals.
He also helped Argentina win the 2022 World Cup and appeared in six World Cups.
The Argentine Football Association will pause matches across Argentina during the September 5-6 weekend.
Referees will stop play in the 10th minute of the first half for one minute of applause.
The tribute covers the Clausura tournament and other men’s and women’s leagues and disciplines.
Stadiums with video boards must show a tribute video featuring photos of Messi before kickoff.
Messi retired from Argentina duty after 207 appearances and 125 goals, both national records.
- Who
- The Argentine Football Association, Argentine football clubs, and Lionel Messi.
- What
- Matches will pause for a one-minute applause, while stadiums with video boards show tribute videos honoring Messi.
- When
- The tribute is planned for the September 5-6 weekend, following Messi’s retirement announcement on August 31.
- Where
- At football matches across Argentina, including the Clausura tournament and men’s and women’s competitions.
- Why
- To recognize Messi’s 21-year career and service with Argentina’s national team.
- Pause timing
- Play will stop in the 10th minute of the first half.
- Applause
- The stoppage will include one minute of applause.
- Tribute dates
- The tribute is scheduled for the September 5-6 weekend.
- Coverage
- The plan includes the Clausura tournament and other men’s and women’s leagues and disciplines.
- Argentina appearances
- Messi made 207 appearances for Argentina’s senior national team.
- Argentina goals
- Messi scored 125 goals, the highest total for an Argentine player.
- World Cup record
- The articles say Messi appeared in six World Cups and helped Argentina win the 2022 tournament.
