Argentina FA Orders 10th-Minute Pause Across Matches to Honour Lionel Messi


The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has announced a special tribute to Lionel Messi, directing football matches across the country to be stopped in the 10th minute as a mark of appreciation for the legendary forward following his decision to retire from international football.


According to the AFA, matches across men’s and women’s football, as well as futsal and beach soccer, will be temporarily halted during the 10th minute of the first half. The stoppage will last for one minute, during which players, officials and supporters will join in a round of applause celebrating Messi’s extraordinary contribution to Argentine football.

The decision to use the 10th minute carries a strong symbolic meaning. Messi has worn Argentina’s iconic No. 10 shirt for much of his international career, making the tribute a direct reference to the number that has become synonymous with his name.

The AFA has also instructed stadiums equipped with large screens to show a commemorative video before matches. The initiative is intended to give supporters across Argentina an opportunity to celebrate the career of a player who has had an enormous influence on the national team and the country's football culture.

Messi recently announced his retirement from Argentina's national team after an international career spanning more than two decades. His decision brought an emotional end to one of the most remarkable chapters in the history of international football.

The 39-year-old forward leaves the national team as Argentina's record goalscorer and most-capped player, having scored 125 goals in 207 appearances. His international career also includes some of the country's greatest achievements in modern football, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph and Copa América victories in 2021 and 2024.

Messi's journey with Argentina was not without disappointment. Before eventually achieving major international success, he endured several difficult years, including defeats in major finals and his brief retirement from international football in 2016. He later returned to the national team and helped Argentina end a long wait for major silverware.

His influence extended beyond his goals and individual awards. Messi became the face of Argentina's football revival, captaining the team through a period that produced multiple international trophies and unforgettable moments for supporters.

The nationwide 10th-minute tribute therefore represents more than a farewell to a footballer. It is a celebration of a player whose career has become deeply connected with Argentina's sporting identity.

As matches resume after the planned minute of applause, supporters will have another opportunity to acknowledge the legacy of the man who wore the famous No. 10 shirt and carried Argentina's hopes on the biggest stages of world football.

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