A larger-than-life tribute to Lionel Messi has become an unexpected internet sensation. The 85-foot statue, weighing approximately 60 tons, was unveiled in the small town of Cutral Có, Argentina, located in the Patagonia region. The timing coincides with Messi's return to international play for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and his 39th birthday.
The sculpture was crafted over 18 months to immortalize Messi's iconic celebration following Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory over France. It depicts the player kneeling, with one hand on his chest and the other raised triumphantly. Blue paint was used to represent Argentina's jersey, while the rest of the figure was left unpainted.
However, the execution of the pose has led to widespread mockery online, with many observers noting that the statue appears unintentionally NSFW (not safe for work). The viral reaction has overshadowed the statue's artistic and commemorative intent, generating far more buzz than typical sports monuments.
Despite the controversy, the statue stands as one of the largest sculptures dedicated to Messi, underscoring his enduring cultural impact in Argentina and beyond. The town of Cutral Có likely hoped the monument would attract tourism and attention—though perhaps not exactly this kind.