Lionel Messi Responds to Gabon Visit Criticism with UNICEF Donation
Argentine football star Lionel Messi has made a significant donation of €450,000 to UNICEF in the wake of mounting criticism surrounding his controversial visit to Gabon. The gesture is part of the “A Sun for Children” campaign by the United Nations agency, for which Messi serves as a goodwill ambassador.
Messi’s visit to the Central African nation earlier this year sparked heated debate, particularly after he appeared alongside President Ali Bongo during a symbolic ceremony to lay the foundation stone for the new Port-Gentil stadium, a key venue for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations. His presence was met with backlash from human rights organizations, including the Human Rights Foundation, which expressed concern over what it described as implicit support for an authoritarian regime.
In an effort to shift focus toward humanitarian causes, Messi addressed the public through a video message aired on Argentinian television on August 8:
“It is a pleasure to be with you through this video and to collaborate with the people of UNICEF,” he said, reiterating his commitment to the organization’s mission to support vulnerable children around the world.
The controversy escalated after unverified media reports alleged that Messi was paid €3.5 million by the Gabonese government for his participation in the stadium ceremony. The Barcelona forward has firmly denied the claim, stating unequivocally:
“I have not received a single euro.”
The video of Messi’s visit, which was widely circulated online, shows the player casually dressed as he takes part in the ceremony — further fueling criticism about the perceived informality of the event and the political implications of his involvement.
While Messi’s donation to UNICEF is widely seen as an attempt to defuse the controversy, it also highlights the complex intersection of celebrity, politics, and philanthropy. His contribution will support children’s health and education initiatives, reinforcing his long-standing relationship with UNICEF and his role as one of football’s most visible global ambassadors.
The debate over Messi’s trip to Gabon is likely to persist, but his substantial donation has been welcomed by UNICEF and his supporters as a positive outcome arising from a controversial moment.
