Argentina league to pause matches to honor Leo Messi

The Argentine league will pay tribute to Lionel Messi after his retirement from the national team by pausing all of their games in the 10^th minute of the upcoming weekend for a minute of applause.

The superstar, who wore the number 10 shirt for his country, revealed at the beginning of the week that he is retiring from international football.

The 8-time Ballon d’Or winner’s final match for Argentina, which he captained to World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022, was the 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain two months ago.

“To honor the legendary career of Messi with the national team, at the 10^th minute of play in all games, the officials will stop the match, and a minute of applause will be held,” the Argentinian football governing body wrote.

“We can’t wait to see you in the stadiums to join us in this tribute to Messi.”

Leo, his country’s appearances record holder with 207 games, first retired from international football 10 years ago before reversing his decision.

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🚨🇦🇷 At the 10th minute of Boca Juniors vs Vélez, the referee stopped the game.

Players and fans stood together for a minute of applause in honour of Lionel Messi following his Argentina retirement. 👏🥹

The entire country paying tribute to their No.10. 🐐❤️…

— Footybuzz (@footybuzzHQ) September 3, 2026