Did Lionel Messi Delete His Instagram Post Claiming 'GOAT Debate: Settled'? Fact Check Finds Claim False
A claim circulating on social media suggests that Lionel Messi deleted an Instagram post which included the phrase "GOAT debate: settled." Our investigation confirms that the post is still active on his official account and was part of a recent advertising campaign.
A claim circulating on social media asserts that Lionel Messi deleted an Instagram post featuring the phrase 'GOAT debate: settled'. LatestLY's fact-check reveals this claim to be false, as the post remains visible on his official Instagram profile. Lionel Messi vs Cristiano Ronaldo International Goals.
The Claim and Its Spread
The claim originated from a post on X (formerly Twitter) suggesting that Lionel Messi had removed an Instagram post that declared the 'GOAT debate: settled.' This sparked discussions among football fans and followers, implying a retraction or reconsideration on Messi's part regarding his status as the 'Greatest Of All Time.'
User Shares Fake Claim
🚨 BREAKING:
Messi deletes the ‘Goat debate settled’ post following the massive backlash from the Football fans. pic.twitter.com/HgNGoMfroh
— TCR. (@TeamCRonaldo) September 3, 2026
Evidence and Official Sources
Our editorial research confirmed that Lionel Messi did not delete the post in question. The post, which includes a receipt-style graphic detailing his international achievements with Argentina and the concluding statement 'GOAT debate-settled,' is still accessible on his official Instagram account. However, the post has become age-restricted as persons below the age of 21 cannot view it as it’s an advertisement for alcohol.
Lionel Messi OG Post
View this post on Instagram
Messi posted the clip as part of a Michelob ULTRA advertising campaign titled 'Tab Closed.' The campaign prominently features his national team legacy, with the 'GOAT debate-settled' phrase serving as the conclusive line of a metaphorical bar receipt of his accomplishments. Lionel Messi Retirement: AFA Announces 10th-Minute Match Pause Across All Domestic Games to Honour Argentine Legend.
Context of the Post
The Instagram post was made days after Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football, adding a significant layer of context to its assertive nature. The timing aligned with a period of reflection on his career and achievements, particularly with the Argentine national team. The post effectively leveraged his recent international retirement to amplify the campaign's message about his undisputed legacy in football.
Conclusion
The claim that Lionel Messi deleted his Instagram post containing the phrase 'GOAT debate: settled' is false. The post remains active on his official Instagram profile and was part of a Michelob ULTRA advertising campaign celebrating his international achievements.
Fact check
Lionel Messi deleted his Instagram post which included the phrase 'GOAT debate: settled.'
The claim is false; the post is still live on his official account but visibility is age-restricted.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 04, 2026 10:15 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
