Lionel Messi to become animated hero in new Disney+ series

Lionel Messi is set to move from the football pitch into the world of animation, with Disney announcing a new production inspired by the Argentina captain’s remarkable career.

The project, titled Messi and the Giants, will be released on Disney+ in summer 2027. It comes as Messi approaches what is expected to be his final international appearance for Argentina.

Supporters around the world are awaiting Argentina’s farewell match for Messi, when the World Cup holders face Benin at the Monumental stadium in Buenos Aires. A large crowd is expected to attend the game and pay tribute to one of the most influential players in the country’s history.

The animated story centres on Leo, a 12-year-old boy whose love of Messi and football leads him into an extraordinary adventure. He becomes trapped in a parallel world inhabited by giants and must rely on his football skills as he attempts to find his way home.

Disney announced the production through its Disney+ platform, with the company’s official social media post describing it as an all-new animated series from executive producer Lionel Messi.

The project was also reported by French publication Foot Mercato, which said the story had been inspired by the Argentine forward’s journey in football.

As Messi prepares to bring the international chapter of his career with Argentina towards a conclusion, his story is being adapted for a new generation of football fans. His achievements on the field will now form the basis of a fantasy adventure aimed at younger audiences.

Disney confirmed the release timing in a post dated 2 October 2026, stating: “The all-new animated series ‘Messi and the Giants’ from executive producer Lionel Messi is coming to Disney+ summer 2027.”