Lionel Messi will receive UBA’s Doctor Honoris Causa, its highest honorary distinction, before Argentina’s farewell match against Benin next week. Messi’s Doctor Honoris Causa was approved unanimously by UBA, recognizing his remarkable sporting career and representation of Argentina internationally abroad.
The ceremony will take place Tuesday, October 6, shortly before Argentina faces Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires. According to UBA, the distinction recognizes excellence, perseverance, humility, ethical conduct, and commitment to representing Argentina throughout his distinguished career.
Messi’s recognition follows decades of achievements with Argentina, including major international titles that transformed his legacy with the national team. He captained Argentina to the 2022 World Cup triumph, while also helping secure Copa América titles in 2021 and 2024.
Additionally, Argentina won the 2022 Finalissima with Messi, adding another international trophy to his extensive collection of national team honours. His relationship with Argentina has remained central throughout his career, particularly after years of expectations surrounding his international performances nationally.
Meanwhile, the upcoming ceremony adds an academic distinction to Messi’s numerous sporting honours accumulated during his extraordinary football career internationally. The university described Messi as an example and ambassador of Argentine popular culture and national identity beyond football itself today.
Messi will receive the Doctor Honoris Causa shortly before making his farewell appearance for Argentina against Benin at home there. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni previously confirmed the Benin fixture as Messi’s farewell appearance following his decision to retire internationally again.
The October 6 encounter will take place at Buenos Aires’ Monumental Stadium, giving Messi an opportunity to say goodbye there. With the Doctor Honoris Causa ceremony preceding the match, Messi’s farewell week now carries significance beyond the football pitch itself.
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