The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has directed that all domestic matches across the country be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a one-minute round of applause in honour of Lionel Messi, following his retirement from the national team.
In an official bulletin issued on Wednesday, the AFA stated: “For the upcoming matchday across all men’s and women’s divisions and disciplines, matches will be paused in the 10th minute of the first half for a minute of applause in recognition of Lionel Messi’s career with the Argentina national team.”
The tribute applies to every category and discipline, including 11-a-side football, futsal and beach soccer. Stadiums equipped with video boards are also required to screen a tribute video produced by the AFA before kick-off.
Messi, 39, confirmed his retirement from international football on Monday in a handwritten note posted on Instagram. He stated that his final appearance for Argentina was the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, which the Albiceleste lost to Spain. “I gave it my all; I have nothing left to give,” Messi wrote. “It was a decision that hurt — and still hurts deep down — but I understand that the time has come.”
Messi made his senior debut for Argentina in 2005 and went on to become the nation’s all-time leading scorer with 125 goals in 207 appearances. He featured in six World Cups, winning the tournament in 2022, and holds the records for most World Cup matches played (34) and most victories (23).
The first tributes under the new directive were observed on Wednesday during the Copa Argentina clash between Boca Juniors and Vélez Sarsfield, where play was stopped in the 10th minute for applause from players, officials and supporters.