Lionel Messi conveyed a heartfelt message on Friday, expressing his solidarity with the Venezuelan people following the catastrophic earthquakes on June 24. These devastating events have claimed nearly 3,000 lives and left millions in distress, as reported by Venezuela's Ministry of Communication and Information.
The captain of the Argentine national team addressed the media in the mixed zone of the 2026 World Cup, shortly after Argentina secured a 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in the round of 16, advancing to the next stage. Prior to the match, FIFA honored the victims with a minute of silence.
"A huge message to everyone in Venezuela. We are aware of the terrible misfortune you are enduring, and it's something hard to put into words," stated the Argentine star, according to Venezuela's Ministry of Communication and Information.
Messi specifically reached out to those still searching for their loved ones or facing uncertainty in the aftermath of the disaster.
"Sending support to all those who are suffering greatly, who lost family members, who cannot find their relatives, who are living in uncertainty, not knowing what has happened or what will happen. Sending much strength from here," he expressed.
The Inter Miami forward, named Most Valuable Player of the match after scoring one of Argentina's winning goals, joined the wave of support shown by several soccer players during the World Cup.
Apart from Messi, other athletes, like Colombians Luis Díaz and Richard Ríos, and Englishman Jude Bellingham also extended their support. Bellingham, on July 1, sent a message of encouragement to Venezuelans: "Much strength to everyone in Venezuela and much love too."
A Tragedy that Rallied Support from Sports and Entertainment
Support has also poured in from outside the playing fields. Georgina Rodríguez donated five stretchers to Dr. Domingo Luciani Hospital in Caracas, along with 50,000 euros to the World Central Kitchen organization. Meanwhile, Daddy Yankee launched the humanitarian campaign "Puerto Rico x Venezuela," and Metallica contributed $100,000 to aid efforts.
Additionally, Shakira announced a $500,000 donation through the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund to assist Venezuelan children affected by the disaster.
The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale, struck northern Venezuela on June 24, just 39 seconds apart. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), it was the most intense seismic event recorded in the country since 1900.
Official reports from Venezuelan authorities indicate the disaster resulted in 2,954 fatalities and 16,592 injuries. The United Nations estimates that about 68,000 individuals remain missing and approximately 6.76 million residents have been impacted by the catastrophe.
Understanding the Impact of Venezuela's Earthquakes
What were the magnitudes of the earthquakes in Venezuela?
The earthquakes that struck northern Venezuela on June 24 measured 7.2 and 7.5 on the Richter scale.
How many people were affected by the earthquakes in Venezuela?
Approximately 6.76 million residents were affected by the earthquakes, with 2,954 fatalities and 16,592 injuries reported.
Who else has shown support for the Venezuelan people?
Support has come from various quarters, including Georgina Rodríguez, Daddy Yankee, Metallica, and Shakira, each contributing to relief efforts in different ways.