Lionel Messi said goodbye to 2025 surrounded by his family and welcomed 2026 in an intimate manner. The Argentina captain celebrated the New Year with his wife Antonella Roccuzzo and their children Thiago, Mateo and Ciro and shared the celebrations on social media, where he once again showed his personal side.
A simple, human message that has nothing to do with the World Cup.
“10” published a message on his official Instagram account, which quickly spread around the world, but the tone of the message was surprising. In the year the World Cup was held, Messi avoided references to soccer or commitments to the sport, preferring universal aspirations.
“HAPPY 2026! Wishing everyone a year full of health, love and peace,” he wrote.
Without mentioning titles, competitions or sporting glory, this message caught attention for this very reason. It was a greeting that focused on humanity, emotion and the values that the Argentine player usually emphasizes when he is not on the pitch.
A family appearance that excited fans again
The message was accompanied by a family photo that reflected the serenity, unity and closeness that has always accompanied Messi’s public image off the field. As with all of the captain’s posts, fans were quick to flood his social media with messages of love, support and excitement.
2026 is full of expectations, but Messi tones it down
2026 will be a special year for Argentina as they must defend the World Cup title they won in Qatar. However, Messi chose to distance himself from the pressure of the media and the hustle and bustle of sport and start the year with a gentle message, without big statements or public expectations.
As the football world prepares to see him once again lead Albiceleste on the biggest stage, the Argentine star has chosen to prioritize something deeper: his desire for health, love and peace.
A captain who inspires on and off the field
With a short but powerful message, Messi once again proved why he transcends sports. As the world waits to see what will happen in football, the Argentine captain remembers something simple but important. That means there is life before soccer. And his year 2026 begins.
