Lionel Messi’s legacy has extended beyond the football pitch, with researchers naming a newly identified plant species after the Argentine superstar.
A scientific study has documented a distinctive plant species native to the Andes Mountains of central and southern Peru. The species has been named Salvia messii in recognition of the legendary footballer, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.
According to The Atheist, the plant has been classified as endangered. Its delicate blue and white flowers bear a striking resemblance to the colours of Argentina’s national football jersey, adding a symbolic connection to Messi’s international career.
The name follows the established conventions of botanical nomenclature, under which the Latinized suffix “-i” can be used to honour a male individual. As a result, Salvia messii can be interpreted as “Messi’s sage plant.”
The species belongs to the Lamiaceae family, commonly known as the mint family. Other plants within this family are recognised for their potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
Growing to approximately 1.5 metres in height, Salvia messii has adapted to the challenging conditions of rocky, dry mountain slopes. It has been documented at elevations between 2,000 and 2,400 metres above sea level, where its ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions helps it survive.
Despite these adaptations, the plant faces significant threats from climate change and wildfires, which have contributed to its endangered status.
The research and naming process involved Paul Gonzales of the Natural History Museum at the National University of San Marcos, Argentine researcher Rolando Uria, and biologist Jean Capcha-Ramos of Huarango Nature.
Football Stars Continue to Inspire Scientific Discoveries
Messi is not the first football figure to have a newly identified species named in his honour.
Earlier this year, Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha, who is also expected to feature at this summer’s FIFA World Cup, was honoured when Spanish researcher Jesús Ortea named a newly identified marine mollusc after him.
Ortea, a professor of Animal Biology and Zoology at the University of Oviedo, has previously linked marine discoveries to the world of football. In 2019, he named a newly identified species of tiny sea snail after Keylor Navas, the former Real Madrid and Costa Rica goalkeeper.
Messi’s Legacy Beyond Football
Currently playing for Inter Miami, Messi has built one of the most remarkable careers in football history. His achievements include reaching three World Cup finals with Argentina and lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022, as well as winning two Copa América titles.
His influence extends well beyond the game itself, with the decision to name Salvia messii reflecting the global recognition he has earned throughout his career.
The discovery offers another example of how sporting icons can leave a lasting mark in unexpected fields, including science and biodiversity research.