Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national team; the World Cup final, held on 20 July 2026 at the New York/New Jersey Stadium, marked the final match of Messi’s international career.

Messi made 207 appearances for Argentina, scoring 125 goals and providing 68 assists. The 2026 USA-Canada-Mexico World Cup served as Messi’s farewell appearance on the major international stage, during which he made eight appearances, scoring eight goals and providing four assists.

In the World Cup final, Argentina lost 0–1 to Spain after a gruelling 120-minute battle, failing to defend their World Cup title. Messi was in tears on the pitch after the match, and this World Cup final marked the final match of his 21-year international career.