Lionel Messi stopped to interview Venezuelan journalist Manuel Gutiérrez, who has motor paralysis, during a pre-World Cup event in the U.S.
The interaction has gained significant traction on social media, highlighting the impact of accessibility and visibility for journalists with disabilities in high-pressure sporting environments.
The encounter took place June 10 [1] at Jordan-Hare Stadium in Alabama. The meeting occurred amidst a crowd of fans following a friendly match between Argentina and Iceland. Despite the congestion of the crowd, Messi paused to speak with Gutiérrez, who uses a wheelchair.
Messi later commented on the moment, saying, "No sé cómo, pero logró verme" [2]. The interaction was captured on video and subsequently went viral, bringing international attention to Gutiérrez's work and personal journey as a journalist living with motor paralysis.
For Gutiérrez, the moment represented more than a professional achievement. He described the experience as a turning point in his life, saying, "Me cambió radicalmente la vida" [3].
The event occurred as part of the buildup to the 2026 World Cup. The visibility provided by the viral clip has significantly increased Gutiérrez's presence and following across various digital platforms. The gesture from the Argentine captain was widely perceived as a demonstration of inclusion within the global sports community.
“"Me cambió radicalmente la vida"”
This incident underscores the symbolic power of high-profile athletes to champion accessibility. By pausing for a journalist with motor paralysis in a chaotic stadium environment, Messi shifted the narrative from the athletic competition to a matter of human dignity and professional recognition, potentially encouraging more inclusive media access at major international sporting events.
