Lionel Messi and the Argentine band Babasónicos shared a night out in Bariloche in July 2006, an encounter captured in a photograph that later became a viral internet meme. According to musician Carca, the group helped the 19-year-old footballer enter the Roxy nightclub after security guards initially blocked his path.
How Babasónicos Rescued a Young Lionel Messi from Nightclub Security
The meeting occurred shortly after Argentina’s elimination from the 2006 World Cup in Germany. Messi, then a rising star with only two seasons at FC Barcelona, had traveled to Bariloche for a vacation. According to Carca in an interview with El Living de NewsDigitales, the band had just finished a performance and headed to the Roxy, a staple of the Bariloche winter scene.
At the entrance, Carca recalls seeing Messi “blocked by two giant bouncers” who refused to let him in. The security staff reportedly told the band members they didn’t know who Messi was and told them not to “break their balls.” Because the band had “red carpet” status at the venue, they were able to convince the guards to let the footballer enter with them.
The “Protective” Role of Adrián Dárgelos and the Band
Once inside, the band took on an unofficial security role for the teenager. Carca told NewsDigitales that the environment was “revolutionary” due to Messi’s presence. He specifically highlighted the role of Adrián Dárgelos, who intervened when a photographer and a woman attempted to stage a compromising photo by having the woman jump on Messi.
Carca described the attempted photo as “filth” that could have potentially damaged the young player’s image. Throughout the night, the group shared drinks—specifically Dr. Lemon—and integrated Messi into their circle. Carca noted that Messi remained authentic and “didn’t fear being himself,” despite being surrounded by the eccentric personalities of the rock band.
The Origin of the “Legendary” Photo
Contrary to some rumors, the famous image was not a planned request by the band. Carca clarified that neither he nor Dárgelos asked for the picture. Instead, an employee of the Roxy suggested the photo. Carca then pulled Dárgelos into the frame to ensure the moment was captured.
Speaking to Teleshow four years prior, Carca compared the experience to being “with Lennon and McCartney” and you in the middle. He revealed a personal motivation for the photo: he wanted to show it to his nephew, a massive football fan, to become the “number one uncle in the world.”
Comparing the 2006 Messi to the Global Icon
The accounts provided by Carca highlight a contrast between the 19-year-old Messi and the current global superstar. In 2006, Messi was a substitute player in the World Cup and largely unrecognized by local nightclub security in Argentina. Today, such an encounter would involve massive security details and global media coverage.
| Detail | 2006 Encounter | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Recognition | Unknown to Roxy bouncers | Global household name |
| Security | Protected by Babasónicos | Professional security teams |
| Status | Rising FC Barcelona talent | Global superstar |
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Babasónicos meet Lionel Messi?
They met in July 2006 in Bariloche, Argentina, following the World Cup in Germany.
Where did the meeting take place?
The encounter happened at the entrance and inside the Roxy nightclub.
Who took the famous photo?
According to Carca, the photo was suggested and taken by an employee of the Roxy nightclub.
Why did the photo become a meme?
Carca attributes its popularity to the visible happiness on the faces of those in the photo, making it a symbol of joy and celebration.
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