Lionel Messi and Argentine FA Face U.S. Lawsuit Over $7 Million Deal for Star's Absence

VID Files Lawsuit Against Messi and AFA

According to Главком: American company VID has filed a lawsuit in the Southern District of Florida against Lionel Messi and the Argentine Football Association (AFA) for alleged breach of contract related to the player's participation in friendly matches. VID paid the AFA $7 million for the exclusive rights to host two Argentina national team friendlies in the United States. Such promotional contracts are common in international soccer, but disputes over star player appearances are a recurring legal issue.

Match Details and Contract Breach

The matches took place on October 11 and 15, 2025, where Argentina played against Venezuela (final score 1:0) and Puerto Rico (final score 6:0). Lionel Messi missed the first match entirely and played the full 90 minutes in the second. The contract between VID and the AFA stipulated that Messi was required to participate for at least 30 minutes in each match, barring injury.

VID claims the player was not injured, citing that the day after the first match, he played for his club, Inter Miami, scoring two goals and providing an assist.

The AFA initially promised to compensate VID by arranging friendly matches against the Chinese national team in 2026, but this agreement was never finalized.

• Lionel Messi is currently 38 years old
• Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner
• Four-time UEFA Champions League winner
• 2022 FIFA World Cup champion
• 2014 FIFA World Cup runner-up
• 2008 Olympic gold medalist
• Two-time Copa America champion (2021, 2024)

This case underscores the critical importance of honoring contractual obligations in the sports industry, especially when large financial deals are involved.

Given Messi's global reputation and influence in soccer, the outcome of this lawsuit could have significant repercussions not only for him but also for the Argentine Football Association, which may face serious legal and financial consequences. Observers will be watching closely to see how the AFA plans to resolve the situation and whether it can secure compensation for VID in the future.

This legal dispute highlights the ongoing challenges faced by high-profile players like Messi, especially in light of their immense marketability. In a related story, the debate surrounding Messi's position as the top footballer continues to evolve, particularly with comparisons to other legends of the game. For insights on how Messi stacks up against his peers, read more about the current landscape of football greatness.