Luxury device customiser Caviar International has unveiled a A$18,800 Lionel Messi tribute edition of Samsung’s unreleased Galaxy Z Fold 8, days after the Argentina captain’s side lost the World Cup final to Spain in scenes marred by a post-match brawl.

The Dubai-based company, known for reworking Apple iPhones and Samsung foldables with precious metals, diamonds and rare artifacts, will produce just 19 units of the limited-edition handset.

Gold, Enamel And A 19-Unit Run

The device features a handcrafted cloisonné enamel portrait of Messi in Argentina’s national colours, 24-karat gold accents, the Argentina Football Association crest, a commemorative 2022 FIFA World Cup badge and Adidas branding.

Buyers receive a bespoke presentation box finished in royal blue with gold detailing, along with a custom Caviar key.

Caviar says production only begins after full payment has been received, with each handset built to order due to the extensive gold plating and handcrafted enamel work.

Launch Follows Bad-Tempered Final

The launch lands at an awkward moment for the Messi brand. Argentina’s 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final at New York/New Jersey Stadium, decided by a Ferran Torres goal in the 106th minute, ended in ugly scenes.

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes confronted Spain’s Gavi after the final whistle, striking him in the face as other Argentina players joined the melee, and was sent off for his role in the post-match hostilities. Enzo Fernández had earlier been shown a straight red card for a reckless foul on Pau Cubarsí.

Messi, who shook hands with every Spanish player, left the field without commenting on his teammates’ conduct.

Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart, on BBC punditry duties, described Argentina’s behaviour as “disgusting”, saying Messi was the only man on the pitch with class and that Argentina could have no complaints after being dominated all game. Commentator Aaron Cikaya said thuggery had been normalised in the name of passion, while CNN’s Jim Sciutto called the scenes an awful model for young athletes.

Listing Hints At Fold 8 Ultra Specs

Beyond the tribute itself, the Caviar listing appears to confirm details of Samsung’s next foldable ahead of its official debut.

It suggests the Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra will start at 256GB of storage, with 512GB and 1TB configurations also available.

While the Caviar model closely resembles last year’s Fold 7 in overall shape, reports have suggested the standard Fold 8 could adopt a wider design, delivering a more conventional aspect ratio for media consumption.

Samsung is yet to announce the Galaxy Z Fold 8 range.