Football icon Lionel Messi has officially closed the chapter on his international career, confirming his exit from the Argentina national team following the Albiceleste’s heartbreaking loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final.

The Argentine superstar broke the news through a handwritten letter posted to his Instagram, revealing that the message had actually been penned weeks earlier, just two days after the final whistle on June 21.

However, he chose to hold off sharing it publicly due to the deteriorating health of his father, Jorge, who passed away on August 8.

In his emotional statement, Messi reflected on two decades of wearing the Argentina jersey, expressing that while the decision to step away was painful, he felt the moment had arrived.

He emphasized that he had poured everything into every match, not just during the recent trophy-winning years, but throughout his entire career representing his country.

The forward acknowledged an emerging generation of talented young players ready to carry the torch forward, while thanking fans, teammates, coaching staff, and his family for supporting him throughout his journey. He noted that news of his father’s passing only strengthened his resolve to finalize the decision.

Messi departs international football having found the net 125 times across 207 caps, a career highlighted by Argentina’s triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign and back-to-back Copa América championships.

While his time with the national team has concluded, Messi shows no signs of stepping away from club football.

He remains active with Inter Miami CF in MLS, recently netting four goals during a dominant 7-1 victory over CF Montréal.