Gracias, Capitán: Messi Retires from International Football

September 2, 2026
Announcements

There will never be another chapter like it. After more than two decades in the famous number 10 shirt, Lionel Messi has announced his retirement from international football — closing the greatest individual story the international game has ever seen.

It began with a teenager so slight the shirt seemed to wear him, and it ends with the most decorated player in Argentina’s history: a FIFA World Cup™ winner, a multiple Copa América champion, his country’s record goalscorer and its most-capped player. Between those two points lie twenty years of moments the sport will never forget, and a few heartbreaks that made the triumphs mean more.

The Long Road to Qatar

What made Messi’s international career so beloved was that it wasn’t easy. There was the agony of the 2014 final in the Maracanã, defeats on penalties in successive Copa América finals, and even a brief retirement in 2016, reversed because Argentina simply refused to imagine the shirt without him.

Then came the golden years. The 2021 Copa América, his first senior international trophy, was won in Brazil of all places, followed by the night that completed football: 18 December 2022, Lusail, the World Cup final for the ages. Messi lifting the trophy in Qatar wasn’t just Argentina’s third star; it felt like the game itself settling a debt.

He gave it one final summer in 2026, captaining the holders all the way to the final on American soil at the age of 39. It wasn’t to be; a brilliant Spain side saw to that, but the ovation that followed him around stadiums in the United States, Canada and Mexico all tournament long said everything. The world knew it was watching him in the albiceleste for the last time.

Our Twenty Years with Leo

At Icons, this moment lands differently. We have worked with Leo since he was 17 years old, before the Ballon d’Ors, before the trophies, when he had only just broken into the FC Barcelona first team. He is not simply an incredible player; he is the longest partnership in our history, and the heart of everything Icons has become.

Across two decades and several signing sessions every year, we have watched that famous hand sign thousands of shirts, balls, boots and photographs. In 2014, together, we launched the first officially licensed memorabilia range ever created for an individual player, Official Lionel Messi Signed Memorabilia, and we have been his exclusive signed memorabilia partner throughout the era that took him from prodigy to world champion.

Some of those signatures now sit in collections on every continent. Every one of them tells the same story: an authentic connection to the greatest of all time, made in person, pen on fabric, the closest a fan can get to the moments he gave us.

The Shirts That Say Argentina


Leo will keep playing club football, and we will keep working alongside him as we always have. But the Argentina chapter is now complete, and the signed shirts, World Cup pieces and framed displays created across our partnership have become something new today: artefacts of a finished masterpiece.

From signed Argentina 2022 World Cup shirts to dual-signed displays alongside the next generation, the Official Lionel Messi Signed Collection is where that story lives on.

Gracias, Capitán. It has been the honour of our lifetime to sign alongside you.


Play the Icons Predictors

Icons_Predictor
August 13, 2026
Announcements

From the World Cup to every gameweek: play the Icons Predictors

Last summer, football fans didn’t just watch the FIFA World Cup™ — almost 50,000 of you predicted it. Our free-to-play World Cup Predictor became one of the most-played things we’ve ever put on Icons.com. And it turns out you can’t have just one. So we’ve built a whole line-up of football predictors, and there’s a hand-signed shirt to win in every single one.

It started with the World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup™ Predictor was simple: fill in the full bracket, call the daily scorelines, and pick your Golden Boot and Golden Ball — all for free. 49,157 of you entered, played along through every round to the final, and watched Spain lift the trophy after a 1–0 win over Argentina.

Two players walked away with the top prizes. Chan Pak Hong submitted the most accurate bracket of the lot and won a hand-signed Lionel Messi shirt. ABiliouris finished at the top of the Daily Scores leaderboard and won an official FIFA World Cup signed and Hero Framed shirt.

Missed it? See the results and winners →

The predictors are back — for every competition

The World Cup only comes round every four years. Football doesn’t stop, and neither do the predictors. Here’s what you can play right now.

Champions League Predictor

Pick your final four: who lifts the trophy, who they beat in the final, and the two teams they knock out along the way. Lock it in before the league phase kicks off. Call it right, and you win a signed shirt from a Champions League winner — and as the home of official UEFA Champions League® memorabilia, we’ve got the shirt to match. [Make your prediction →]

Ballon d’Or Predictor

Reckon you know who’s taking the game’s biggest individual award? Build your top five, from the winner down, before the ceremony. Icons.com is the home of official Ballon d’Or™ memorabilia, and there’s a signed shirt from a Ballon d’Or winner up for grabs. [Make your prediction →]

Gameweek Predictor — Premier League, Serie A and LaLiga

This is the one you play every single week. Each gameweek, we pick the six biggest fixtures, and you predict the exact scores. Nail the scoreline, three points; get the result right, one. Points stack up on a season-long leaderboard, and whoever finishes at the top in May wins a hand-signed shirt from a title-winning club. Pick your league:

Free to play. Real shirts to win.

Every predictor is free, takes a couple of minutes, and puts a hand-signed shirt on the line. Make your calls, climb the leaderboards, and while you’re here, take a look at the official signed collections behind the prizes.

Shop signed football memorabilia →


A Fresh Look for Our Holograms, Same Trusted Authentication

New Icons Hologram
April 10, 2026
Uncategorized

At Icons.com, every piece of memorabilia we sell carries more than just a signature; it carries a promise. That promise has been represented for years by the tamper-evident hologram fixed to each item we authenticate, a small but vital marker that connects your collectable back to us and to the moment it was signed. Over the coming weeks, you’ll start to notice that the hologram looks a little different. We wanted to take a moment to explain why.

What’s changing

We’re rolling out a new hologram design across our range. It’s a visual refresh — updated finish, refined detailing, and a cleaner look that sits better alongside our current branding. You may see both the old and new holograms in circulation for a short period as we transition stock, and that’s completely normal. Items already in your collection remain exactly as authentic as the day you bought them. Nothing about their value, provenance, or certification changes.

What’s not changing

This is the important part: the process behind the hologram is identical to what it’s always been. Every item we sell is still signed in person at a private signing session attended by an Icons.com representative, photographed throughout, matched to a certificate of authenticity, and logged in our database. The hologram is simply one component of that wider process, part of our TripleLock™ authentication system, which combines in-person witnessing, photographic evidence, and a unique certificate reference so that every piece can be verified long after it leaves our hands.

In other words, we haven’t changed how we authenticate. We’ve just updated how the sticker looks.

Why now?

Authentication markers need to evolve. As print and security technology move on, so do the standards we hold ourselves to. Refreshing the hologram gives us a chance to bring the design in line with the rest of our brand while also taking advantage of improved materials. It’s a small step, but one that reflects the care we put into every stage of the process, from the signing room to the moment a piece arrives at your door.

For existing collectors

If you already own items authenticated under the previous hologram, there’s nothing you need to do. Your certificate of authenticity, your database record, and your piece’s provenance all remain fully valid and fully supported. Both the old and new holograms will be recognised by our team indefinitely, and any future verification requests or simple peace of mind will be handled exactly as they always have been.

Questions?

If you spot the new hologram on a recent purchase and want to double-check anything, our team is always happy to help. Drop us a line, and we’ll walk you through it.
customersupport@icons.com

As ever, thank you for trusting Icons.com with the pieces that mean the most to you. The look may be evolving, but the standards never will.


Tennis Sensation Carlos Alcaraz Serves Up Signatures at Exclusive Session!

November 16, 2023
Announcements

Icons.com is delighted to announce that two-time major winning tennis star Carlos Alcaraz put pen to product in his first ever signing session, an exclusive with the Icons.com signing team.

The Icons.com team headed out to Murcia in Spain on November 6th for the first of what we hope will be many signing sessions with the 2023 men’s singles Wimbledon winner.

Garnering attention in 2019 after winning three consecutive ITF Futures tournaments, Alcaraz went on to become the youngest year-end number one in the history of the ATP computerised rankings, aged just 19.

His breakthrough continued in 2022, where he secured his first ATP Tour title at the Rio Open, defeating several seasoned opponents along the way. Alcaraz continued to impress, and in 2023 he won the world-famous men’s singles Wimbledon title, defeating one of the sport’s all-time greats in Novak Djokovic.

There’s no doubt Alcaraz will continue to shine bright in the world of tennis. Icons.com are extremely proud to have held the first of many exclusive signings with this ace Spaniard, serving up a plethora of signed incredible memorabilia for his many fans around the world.

Each and every item of Alcaraz signed memorabilia from Icons.com comes with an official Certificate of Authenticity, which serves as your proof that the Argentine’s signature is 100% authentic and was genuinely signed by the man himself during this private signing session, organised and conducted by our dedicated signing team.

The full range of Alcaraz signed memorabilia is available to buy from Icons.com right now.

For the latest on who we sign with next, as well as early access to products and exclusive discounts, giveaways and much more, make sure you’re subscribed to the Icons.com email newsletter. Sign up today via icons.com/newsletter.


FIFA World Cup Hero Emi Martinez signs with Icons.com!

March 10, 2023
Signing Sessions

Highly-decorated FIFA World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez put pen to product at our latest signing session, adding to the already star-studded list of footballing heroes to sign for Icons.com.

The Icons signing team held a private session with Martinez in England’s city of Birmingham on March 7th. The Argentina and Aston Villa shot-stopper signed a number of items during our time with him, including shirts, gloves and photos.

The signing comes off the back of a highly successful few years for the Argentine, who lifted the CONMEBOL Copa America in 2021 and followed that with an unforgettable FIFA World Cup triumph beside Icons favourite Lionel Messi.

The former Arsenal goalkeeper will be long remembered for his heroics against France in the showpiece Doha final. He made a number of important saves and earned the prestigious Golden Glove award as the best goalkeeper at the tournament.

Martinez is currently plying his trade at former European champions Aston Villa and will be hoping to help the Midlands club return to continental football in the near future – it’s safe to say Villa are in good hands!

Each and every item of Martinez signed memorabilia from Icons.com comes with an official Certificate of Authenticity, which serves as your proof that the Argentine’s signature is 100% authentic and was genuinely signed by the man himself during this private signing session, organised and conducted by our dedicated signing team.

The full range of Martinez signed memorabilia is available to buy from Icons.com right now.

For the latest on who we sign with next, as well as early access to products and exclusive discounts, giveaways and much more, make sure you’re subscribed to the Icons.com email newsletter. Sign up today via icons.com/newsletter.


Another Signing with Lionel Messi!

November 9, 2022
Signing Sessions

Argentina megastar and global icon Lionel Messi once again put pen to product for Icons.com at his fourth and final signing of 2022. With the signing done, the legendary forward’s sights will now be firmly set on the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

The official signing took place in Paris on November 5th, 2022 and was his final session of the year before heading off to Qatar to prepare for the biggest show on earth: the FIFA World Cup.

Messi’s form has been electric so far this season and he is currently a key part of arguably the most potent attack in world football. He will be hoping to carry that form over to the FIFA World Cup where his side, Argentina, are favourites to lift the iconic trophy.

This will be Messi’s fifth FIFA World Cup and he is set to break even more records at this year’s competition, most notably the most minutes played at a FIFA World Cup finals, a record currently held by Italian legend Paulo Maldini.

Icons have been working with Messi since the age of 17 and in turn have developed a wonderful relationship with the world’s greatest player. Icons is the only source of authentic Official Messi Signed Merchandise.

Every single piece of Official Messi Signed Merchandise comes with a Certificate of Authenticity (COA) that shows Messi signing one of the items at the session, as well as the date and location of the signing. The COA is created under license by Icons.com.

For the latest on who we sign with next, as well as early access to products and exclusive discounts, giveaways and much more, make sure you’re subscribed to the Icons.com email newsletter. Sign up today via icons.com/newsletter.


Luka Modric Again Signs for Icons.com!

November 6, 2022
Signing Sessions

Icons.com are delighted to announce yet another signing with an iconic player – this time, it’s Real Madrid superstar and Ballon d’Or winner Luka Modric!

The private signing session took place in Madrid on November 4th, 2022 at which Modric added his signature to an array of fantastic new items including shirts, balls and photos.

Modric-signed Croatia, Real Madrid and Tottenham Hotspur shirts are available to buy not only in sleek Icons.com presentation options but also in our official and exclusive UEFA Champions League and FIFA World Cup memorabilia collections.

After starting his career at Dinamo Zagreb, Modric was snapped up by Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur where he spent four years as a fans’ favourite.

Real Madrid signed Modric for £30million in 2012 – a shrewd move as the Croatian has gone on to win three La Liga titles and a staggering five UEFA Champions Leagues.

The mercurial midfielder also inspired his nation to an unlikely FIFA World Cup final in Russia in 2018. Modric will be hoping to go one better at the FIFA World Cup this year in Qatar and has his eyes set on winning that illustrious trophy so many dream of lifting.

Each and every item of Luka Modric signed memorabilia from Icons.com comes with an official Certificate of Authenticity, which serves as your proof that Modric’s signature is 100% authentic and was genuinely signed by the man himself during this private signing session, organised and conducted by our dedicated signing team.

The full range of Modric signed memorabilia is available to buy from Icons.com right now.

For all the latest on the next global megastar to sign with Icons.com – as well as early access to products and exclusive discounts, giveaways and much more – make sure you’re subscribed to the official Icons.com email newsletter. Sign up today via icons.com/newsletter.


Yaya Toure Signs With Icons.com!

October 5, 2022
Signing Sessions

Icons.com is delighted to announce yet another signing with an iconic player – this time, it’s former FC Barcelona and Manchester City midfielder Yaya Toure!

The private signing session took place in London on September 9th, 2022 at which Toure added his signature to an array of fantastic new items including shirts, boots, balls and photos.

Toure-signed Ivory Coast, FC Barcelona and Manchester City shirts are available to buy not only in sleek Icons.com presentation options but also in our official and exclusive FC Barcelona, UEFA Champions League and Manchester City memorabilia collections.

Toure began his senior career at Belgian club Beveren before spells at Olympiacos and Monaco but his first major honours came with Spanish giants FC Barcelona, where he twice won La Liga. The Ivorian won the UEFA Champions League in 2009, playing in the Rome final famous for Lionel Messi’s brilliant header in the 2-0 triumph.

After 118 appearances for FC Barcelona, Toure moved to Premier League club Manchester City, where he quickly established himself as a vital part of the team and won three Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups.

Over an almost 20-year career, Toure played over 600 games and scored 103 goals from midfield. It almost goes without saying that Toure was one of the most influential African players of a generation.

Each and every item of Yaya Toure signed memorabilia from Icons.com comes with an official Certificate of Authenticity, which serves as your proof that Toure’s signature is 100% authentic and was genuinely signed by the man himself during this private signing session, organised and conducted by our dedicated signing team.

The full range of Toure signed memorabilia is available to buy from Icons.com right now.

For all the latest on the next global megastar to sign with Icons.com – as well as early access to products and exclusive discounts, giveaways and much more – make sure you’re subscribed to the official Icons.com email newsletter. Sign up today via icons.com/newsletter.