Lionel Messi is set to make his final appearance for the Argentina national team on 6 October 2026 at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires. The 84,000-capacity venue will host an official tribute match against Benin following Messi's decision to retire from international football.
"One last match. A jersey for a lifetime,” Lionel Messi captioned the video of the special Adidas jersey reveal on his Instagram.
A Custom Design for a Historic Exit
To mark his farewell, Adidas and the Argentine Football Association have created a bespoke commemorative kit. The design departs from traditional vertical stripes, featuring a sky-blue base with a single broad white central stripe across the torso.
In a rare personal touch, Messi's signature 'M' logo replaces the standard Adidas performance logo on the right chest in metallic gold. The left chest displays the gold-accented three-star Argentina crest.
The crew-neck collar and sleeve cuffs are styled in black with gold edging. On the reverse, gold 'MESSI 10' printing is framed by the radiant sunburst pattern, topped by a small Sun of May emblem below the rear collar.
Messi Preview and Farewell Words
Messi previewed the new kit on social media alongside a video showing him replacing a standard national shirt with the commemorative gold-detailed jersey and white boots.
Reflecting on his decision to step away from international duty, Messi shared a message with supporters:
"It was a painful decision, and it still hurts me deeply, but I understand that the time has come,” Messi said in August.
He spoke further about his dedication to the national team throughout his career:
"I swear to you that I have always given my best, not only in the past few years when we won everything, but before that too."
Key Career Statistics
Messi finishes his international career as Argentina's leading appearance maker and goalscorer.
- 207 senior international caps.
- 125 international goals.
- 68 assists.
- 84,000 stadium capacity at El Monumental.
Following the match against Benin, manager Lionel Scaloni and the squad will move forward into World Cup qualification without their long-serving captain.
