A newly discovered plant species in Peru that is at risk of extinction has been named Salvia messii in honour of Argentine football star Lionel Messi. The news was reported by the online publication The Athletic.

The name of the new species is linked to its light blue and white flowers. These colours are reminiscent of the colours of the Argentina national football team’s kit.

The Salvia messii plant also attracts attention for its medicinal properties. Some plants belonging to this species are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.

Since 2023, Lionel Messi has played for Inter Miami, a club competing in Major League Soccer (MLS), the leading football league in North America. During his career, he has also played for Spain’s Barcelona and France’s Paris Saint-Germain (PSG).

Messi became world champion with Argentina’s national team in 2022. He also won an Olympic gold medal in 2008 and the Copa América in 2021 and 2024.

The Argentine footballer has won the Ballon d’Or eight times, making him the record holder for the number of awards. He has also set records for the number of appearances and goals scored for his national team.

Naming the new plant species after Messi highlights a distinctive connection between sport and nature. The initiative may also help draw public attention to rare plant species and the importance of protecting them.