Lionel Messi Retirement: AFA President Claudio Tapia Says Argentina Legend to Solely Decide His Future

Argentine Football Association (AFA) President Claudio 'Chiqui' Tapia has firmly stated that the timing of Lionel Messi's retirement from international football will be a decision made solely by the iconic forward himself. Speaking in a recent interview on Argentine TV, Tapia underscored that the footballing world should simply let the 39-year-old superstar enjoy his continued career, especially following his exceptional display at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Lionel Messi Named Main Target in Leaked FIFA World Cup 2026 Terror Plot Dossier: Report.

'It's a decision that is purely and personally his' Tapia remarked, according to translations of his comments made around August 7-8, 2026. 'You have to let him relax. In 2022, we didn't know if he'd play in 2026. He said it was game by game, and I think we've seen a great version -- if not the best -- of Leo in a World Cup.'

Lionel Messi's Enduring Brilliance at World Cup 2026

Tapia's comments come amidst widespread speculation regarding Messi's future with the national team, particularly concerning his potential participation in the 2028 Copa America. Despite turning 39 on June 24, 2026, just days before the World Cup, Messi once again led La Albiceleste with distinction. Argentina, however, ultimately fell short in the final, losing 1-0 to Spain in extra time.

Messi's individual statistics from the 2026 tournament highlight his undiminished impact:

• Goals: 8
• Assists: 4
• Key Moments: Scored a brace against Austria in the group stage.
• Records: Became the first player to surpass Miroslav Klose's career World Cup scoring record of 16 goals, reaching a total of 21 World Cup goals.

Reflecting on Messi's performance, Tapia added, "It was a great World Cup from Leo. We enjoyed it a lot, and we've got to feel proud. I enjoyed every moment. Without a doubt, he was the standard-bearer of this group in the World Cup. If you analyze the World Cup he had, for me, he was the best player. He was breaking records match after match." Lionel Messi’s Ancestry Traced to Sao Paulo in Brazil Before Family Moved to Argentina: Study.

Club Future and Longevity

Currently, Messi continues to captain Major League Soccer (MLS) club Inter Miami CF. He extended his contract with the club through the 2028 MLS season on October 23, 2025. Inter Miami achieved significant success in 2025, securing their first MLS Cup Championship. Since April 2026, the club has been playing its home matches at the newly established Nu Stadium in Miami.

Messi's remarkable longevity and consistent performance at the highest level continue to defy conventional expectations for footballers of his age. Tapia's stance ensures that no pressure will be exerted on the national team captain, allowing him the autonomy to decide when to conclude his illustrious international career.

Argentina's football leadership remains committed to supporting Messi in whatever path he chooses, acknowledging his unparalleled contributions to the sport and the national team. The focus is clearly on celebrating his ongoing brilliance rather than prematurely discussing his departure from the game.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 08, 2026 12:00 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).