The University of Buenos Aires (UBA) will confer an honorary doctorate on Lionel Messi in recognition of his football career and his contribution to Argentina.
UBA’s Higher Council unanimously approved the award of its highest honorary distinction, Doctor Honoris Causa, to the Argentina captain.
The honour is scheduled to be presented on Tuesday, October 6, ahead of Messi’s farewell match for the national team against Benin at the Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires.
In its resolution, the university described Messi’s career as an example of excellence, perseverance, humility and ethical conduct, as well as commitment to representing the country.
UBA cited his leadership in Argentina’s recent international successes, including the 2021 Copa America, 2022 Finalissima, 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar and 2024 Copa America, as well as the team’s run to the final of the 2026 World Cup.
Rector Ricardo Gelpi said the university wanted to recognise Messi beyond numbers and statistics.
“Beyond what all Argentinians know about Messi, regardless of the numbers and statistics that attest to his status as an athlete, we also want to recognise a humble, persevering person, an example and ambassador of our popular culture and national identity,” Gelpi said.
Vice-Rector Emiliano Yacobitti said Messi had conveyed the values of the Argentine jersey with courage and respect and taken it to the highest level of world football, adding that the doctorate was a tribute on behalf of Argentine society that transcends his sporting career.
Messi, 39, is set to bring more than two decades with the Albiceleste to an end in the friendly against Benin.
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