Lionel Messi has spoken publicly for the first time since Argentina’s heartbreaking 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, describing the loss as an “immense” pain while expressing pride in his team’s remarkable journey.
Spain secured their second World Cup title after substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, ending Argentina’s hopes of defending the trophy they won in Qatar in 2022.
The defeat also ended Argentina’s bid to become the first men’s team since Brazil in 1962 to retain the FIFA World Cup.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Messi admitted the loss would take time to overcome.
“The pain is immense and it’s going to take a long time for this wound to heal,” Messi wrote.
Despite the disappointment, the Argentine captain thanked fans for their unwavering support and praised his teammates for reaching a second consecutive World Cup final.
“I’ll also hold on to all the good memories… the support of an entire country which, together with the hard work and effort of this squad, led us to be, once again, amongst the best in the world,” he added.
Messi also congratulated Spain on their victory and said Argentina could be proud of uniting the nation once again through football.
The 39-year-old made history by becoming only the second player after Brazil’s Cafu to appear in three men’s FIFA World Cup finals, having featured in the 2014, 2022, and 2026 finals.
Widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, Messi remains Argentina’s most decorated footballer, leading the nation to the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024, and the 2022 Finalissima, while also winning a record eight Ballon d’Or awards.
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