Lionel Messi’s international career has concluded, and Topps honored the 2022 World Cup champion with a special tribute release that captured unprecedented demand.
The trading card company introduced a “Final Farewell” pack featuring Messi, which became a massive success, setting new standards for the brand.
Fanatics confirmed via The Athletic that 664,325 orders were placed for the packs, establishing a company record within just seven days of availability.
Messi made his final appearance for Argentina following his international retirement announcement on August 31st. The former Barcelona and current Inter Miami star concluded his 34-year international career with distinction.
The previous record stood at 653,737 orders, set in 2024 to celebrate Shohei Ohtani’s historic 50-50 season.
Orders for Messi’s tribute cards were received between October 9th and October 16th, reflecting overwhelming collector enthusiasm for a player widely regarded as one of football’s greatest.
Messi represented his nation at three World Cups—the 2006 debut, the 2014 runner-up finish, and the 2022 victory in Qatar. While he initially announced his retirement after the World Cup triumph, he returned for the 2026 tournament in the United States, where Argentina fell short in the final to Spain.
As an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, Messi amassed 21 goals and 12 assists across 34 matches for his country. He earned the Golden Ball award in both 2014 and 2022, recognizing his excellence in those tournaments.
This remarkable card is available in special edition packs distributed by Topps.
Messi’s final World Cup campaign proved to be his most successful, as he recorded eight goals and four assists—both career highs in World Cup competition.
He played his last match for Argentina earlier in the month against Benin, scoring his 126th and final international goal. During his career, he achieved 11 hat-tricks, including one versus Algeria in this year’s World Cup.
Lionel Messi celebrates with fans and teammates after winning the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022, in Lusail City, Qatar.
Currently showcasing his talents with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, Messi’s contract extends through the 2028 season, when he will be 41 years old.