We’re afraid to show you the NSFW statue of Lionel Messi

An 85-foot statue of Lionel Messi was unveiled in Cutral Có, Argentina, this week, coinciding with his return to the international stage for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and his 39th birthday on June 24. The sculpture, weighing approximately 60 tons and taking 18 months to complete, depicts Messi in a triumphant pose from the 2022 World Cup victory. However, the statue's design, particularly the placement of the World Cup trophy between Messi's legs and the use of blue and black paint on a white base for his jersey, has led to widespread social media commentary regarding its suggestive appearance, with many users noting the illusion that Messi is not wearing shorts. The statue's creators used blue paint for the jersey stripes and black for Messi's name and number 10, contrasting with the predominantly white sculpture. The placement of the trophy has been a particular point of discussion online, with users humorously or critically pointing out its position.