FC Barcelona’s Joan Laporta unveils plans for a grand Lionel Messi tribute, set to mark the icon’s legacy at Camp Nou.
Lionel Messi, the iconic figure who defined FC Barcelona’s golden era, remains a cherished symbol for the club and its fans, even four years after his emotional departure in 2021.
Their off-field ambitions, including a €1.25 billion Camp Nou renovation, are shaping a future that honors past legends.
President Joan Laporta, navigating financial recovery with a €380m Spotify deal, has kept Messi’s legacy in focus, with plans to commemorate the Argentine’s unparalleled contributions amidst a season of high stakes, including El Clasico on October 26, 2025.
Speaking at Barcelona’s Ordinary General Assembly, Laporta confirmed the club’s intent to honor Messi with a farewell match at the revamped Camp Nou, set to reopen in November 2025.
“I have said repeatedly that we would be pleased to honor him.
He is the best player in history, and he knows that,” Laporta stated, per the club’s official website.
The event, delayed by the team’s temporary move to Montjuïc Olympic Stadium, aims to celebrate Messi’s 672 goals and eight Ballon d’Ors, offering fans closure after his contract talks collapsed.
The farewell match, a gesture to mend the heartbreak of Messi’s exit to Paris Saint-Germain, aligns with Barcelona’s return to their iconic stadium.
Laporta emphasized, “We have always talked about holding this honor with the reopening of the Camp Nou.”
With Lionel Messi, now 38, shining at Inter Miami—recently scoring a hat-trick—the event could draw global attention, boosting Barcelona’s brand amid new partnerships like Uber, despite local taxi protests.
As Flick’s injury-hit squad, missing Lewandowski and Raphinha, relies on Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí, the Messi tribute underscores Barcelona’s commitment to their heritage.
Laporta’s vision, backed by financial stability, aims to unite past and present, but logistical hurdles remain.
Want to get the latest Barcelona news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.
