Lionel Messi announced his retirement from the Argentina national football team on Monday following the 2026 World Cup final. ^[1] Messi shared a letter on his Instagram account stating that he is retiring from the national team after the 2026 World Cup final. ^[2] Lionel Messi, the Argentine footballer currently playing for Inter Miami, announced his retirement from the national team on Monday at age 39. ^[3] Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, sent a message of gratitude to Lionel Messi after the footballer announced his retirement from the Argentina national team. ^[4] Messi stated that the announcement was delayed because of the delicate health situation of his father. ^[5] Messi wrote in his post that the decision to retire was painful and that he always gave his all for the Argentina jersey. ^[6] FIFA President Gianni Infantino published a message thanking Messi for his extraordinary international career and stating that he has inspired millions of people. ^[7] Gianni Infantino recalled Messi's achievements with Argentina, including the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar, his status as the all-time top scorer, and his record for most appearances. ^[8] Messi's international career spanned two decades, during which he won the 2021 Copa América, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa América. ^[9] Gianni Infantino noted that Lionel Messi is a 2022 FIFA World Cup champion, the all-time top scorer, and the player with the most appearances for the Argentina national team. ^[10] Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, praised Lionel Messi for his extraordinary international career that has inspired millions of people. ^[11] Messi acknowledged that a new generation of players needs opportunities to take over and continue contributing to the team. ^[12]