Buenos Aires will give Lionel Messi a farewell shaped by more than one kind of recognition. Before Argentina meet Benin at the Monumental on Tuesday 6 October, the University of Buenos Aires will present the captain with an honorary doctorate, its highest academic distinction, in tribute to his sporting career and his contribution to the country.
The university’s Superior Council approved the honour unanimously, describing Messi’s path as a model of excellence, persistence, humility and ethical conduct. The ceremony will take place on the day of what is set to be his final appearance for Argentina, bringing an international career of more than 20 years to its closing night in the capital.
UBA rector Ricardo Gelpi said Messi represented both an example and an ambassador for Argentina’s popular culture and national identity. The award arrives after a national-team era that has carried the country from long tournament frustrations to its most celebrated modern successes.
Messi captained Argentina to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and has won the Copa América twice, in 2021 and 2024, alongside the Olympic gold medal earned in 2008. He also reached World Cup finals in 2014 and 2026, with Argentina losing both 1-0 after extra time, against Germany and Spain respectively.
The 39-year-old leaves the Albiceleste holding its leading marks for goals, assists and appearances: 125 goals, 68 assists and 207 matches. The fixture with Benin will therefore offer the Monumental a final opportunity to mark the international journey of an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner whose achievements have travelled far beyond the stadiums of Argentina.
