Lionel Messi has spoken publicly for the first time following Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, describing the loss as deeply painful while expressing pride in his team’s achievement of reaching back-to-back World Cup finals.
In a post on Instagram on Monday, the Argentina captain said the disappointment of falling short in the championship match 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 in Spanish alongside a photo of himself wearing his runners-up medal.
Despite the heartbreak, the 39-year-old forward said he would cherish the memories created during the tournament and praised his teammates for their determination throughout the campaign.
Messi highlighted Argentina’s resilience in the knockout rounds, where the team rallied from behind to defeat Egypt and England before overcoming Cape Verde and Switzerland in extra time to book a place in the final.
He also congratulated Spain on winning the World Cup title.
“I’d also like to congratulate Spain on winning the tournament,” Messi said.
Messi finished the tournament with eight goals but was unable to inspire Argentina in the final as Spain controlled the match with a disciplined defensive performance and efficient attack.
The defeat marked Messi’s second World Cup final loss after Argentina fell to Germany in 2014. He previously lifted the trophy in 2022 after leading Argentina to victory over France.
Argentine media reported that Messi was not expected to return to Buenos Aires with the rest of the squad, as the team prepares for a subdued homecoming following the runner-up finish.
