Lionel Messi made his first public appearance since the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, attending a Primera C match near his hometown of Rosario, Argentina.
The Argentine star, who has remained out of the spotlight following Argentina’s defeat in the World Cup final, watched Leones FC, a club run by his family, face Central Córdoba at Antonio Di Giacomo Stadium.
Messi arrived wearing a black hoodie in an effort to keep a low profile, but fans and television cameras quickly spotted him. Standing on a balcony behind one of the goals, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner smiled and waved as supporters chanted his name, receiving a warm ovation from the crowd.
The appearance marked Messi’s first public outing since the conclusion of the World Cup, as he continues spending time with his family during the offseason.
