Lionel Messi's impressive career is marked by a new 85-foot statue in Argentina.
The statue was unveiled on June 16, the day Argentina started their World Cup campaign.
## What happened?
Aldo Beroisa, a sculptor, spent 18 months creating the statue, which shows Messi kneeling with the World Cup trophy between his legs.
The massive statue stands on the outskirts of Cutral Co, a town in southern Argentina, and is made from 70 tonnes of steel and iron.
## Why it matters for Lionel Messi
The monument is the biggest ever created in honor of the Argentine captain, who broke former Germany striker Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup goal record with his 17th and 18th goals.
Lionel Messi turns 39 on Wednesday, and his fans continue to find extravagant ways to honor his accomplishments.
## What comes next?
The statue depicts one of Messi's most iconic moments: his emotional celebration following Argentina's victory in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar.
The artwork also shows the captain looking to the sky while clutching Argentina's jersey—a move he frequently does in remembrance of his late grandmother.
And the statue's inauguration coincides with Argentina's World Cup campaign, which started on June 16.
But the statue is not the only tribute to Lionel Messi, as a fan-made mural is also attracting attention across the country.
So the love for Lionel Messi has reached new heights during the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The statue's creation is a testament to Messi's impact on Argentine football, and his fans will continue to celebrate his achievements.
As of June 16, the statue has become a popular tourist attraction in Patagonia.
Lionel Messi's record-breaking goals have cemented his status as one of the greatest football players of all time.
The 85-foot statue is a remarkable tribute to his career, and it will continue to inspire fans around the world.