Argentina has revealed a towering new Lionel Messi statue in Patagonia, but the tribute has quickly drawn criticism online, with some calling it one of the worst sports monuments ever made.
The 26-meter (85-foot) structure was unveiled on June 16 in Cutral Co, Neuquén province, and is meant to celebrate the World Cup-winning star, who remains one of the most iconic footballers of his generation.
Created by local artist Aldo Beroisa, the statue shows Messi kneeling with one arm raised in what appears to be a goal celebration, with a replica of the World Cup trophy positioned between his legs. That placement has become the main talking point online.
Argentina unveiled a massive 85-foot tall Lionel Messi statue in Patagonia for the World Cup pic.twitter.com/hPnEWnS4CV
— internet hall of fame (@InternetH0F) June 25, 2026
Speaking to the Associated Press, Beroisa explained the meaning behind the project.
“He is Argentina’s natural ambassador. For me, it was very important, not only as an artist but as an Argentine.”
Although the intention behind the monument has been described as heartfelt, critics on social media were quick to focus on how the trophy was positioned in front of Messi’s crotch.
“Messi officially has the worst sports statue ever,”
one wrote on X.
“What was the architect thinking?”
another asked.
“Come on man – it looks bad from every angle.”
a third added.
Others suggested a different pose would have worked better.
“Couldn’t they make him hold the World Cup trophy instead?”
one person wrote.
“Like what was the thought process behind the design?,”
said another.
One more comment summed up the mood by saying it
“should have remained a thought”.
Despite the online ridicule, the monument is a major local project rather than a billionaire-backed stunt. It was built with steel and iron and stands along Route 22 on the outskirts of the Patagonian town.
It is now the tallest statue ever built in Messi’s honor, overtaking a 70-foot version installed in Kolkata last December. That statue was removed in June after engineers determined it posed a safety risk.
Messi turned 39 on June 24, 2026, and remains at the center of Argentina’s World Cup storyline as fans continue to celebrate his legacy on and off the field.