Messi makes first public appearance after World Cup final

Lionel Messi made his first public appearance since Argentina's 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, watching a Primera C match in Arroyo Seco near Rosario.

Messi attended Leones FC, the club run by his family, facing Central Córdoba de Rosario at the Antonio Di Giacomo Stadium, wearing a black jacket with his hood pulled up.

He was spotted with sons Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro on a balcony, and acknowledged supporters by smiling and raising his hand after a video of him circulated on social media.

The 39-year-old eight-time Ballon d'Or winner had stayed out of public view since the July 19 final defeat, returning to Rosario separately on a private flight with his family.

Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal for Spain in the 106th minute, denying Argentina back-to-back World Cup titles and carrying emotional weight due to uncertainty about Messi's international future.