Rosario Bids Emotional Farewell to Messi With Giant Jersey Tribute

Lionel Messi's hometown of Rosario marked his international retirement with spectacular tributes on October 6. A giant Argentina jersey bearing his iconic No. 10 was suspended beneath a helicopter and flown over the city, creating a symbolic farewell gesture connecting the city where his journey began to his final appearance for Argentina.

A 30-metre Adidas-backed display featuring Messi's No. 10 and the word "Gracias" was also installed at Rosario's National Flag Memorial, one of the city's most recognisable landmarks. The tributes preceded Argentina's friendly match against Benin at Buenos Aires' Estadio Monumental on October 6, marking the end of Messi's 21-year international career that included two Copa América titles and the 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph.