The meaning behind the traditional Qatari robe Lionel Messi wore when lifting World Cup trophy

Lionel Messi was finally victorious at a FIFA World Cup as Argentina narrowly overcame a defiant France side on penalties.

France came back from behind twice but eventually lost 4-2 on penalties despite a Kylian Mbappe hattrick. Messi also scored two himself in a man of the match display.

The first World Cup in the Arab world was highlighted at the tournament’s end when Argentina and Messi finally got their hands on football’s greatest prize.

Messi, 35, lifted the trophy while wearing a traditional Qatari bisht - a type of robe - to mixed reaction. Some were glad to see him engage with the local culture, while others were sad to see his Argentinian shirt covered by the black cloth.

Some fans have waited decades to see Messi hold the trophy and images of him doing so while his iconic Argentina strip was largely covered may have been disappointing.

But what does the bisht symbolise and why was Messi draped in it?

The bisht is a traditional Arab garment which has been worn for centuries. It is only worn on special occasions - so perhaps was fitting to be worn during the crowning achievement of Messi’s glorious career.

Given his status, the bisht is usually only worn by high-profile figures - another reason it could have been seen as fitting here.

Others who have previously worn a bisht include the royal family, politicians, scholars, and other affluent members of society.

The bisht was placed on Messi's shoulders by underfire FIFA president Gianni Infantino and the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Away from his teammates, the pair helped Messi put on the garment moments before he lifted the trophy.

It has also been highlighted how Messi himself seemed happy to take up local custom and wear the robe, although it has been a major talking point since.

On BBC’s live coverage of the event, Gary Lineker pointed out that it was a “shame” Messi’s shirt had been covered up. Former Man City defender and Argentina international Pablo Zabaleta - also a friend of Messi’s - replied: “Just, why? Why? No reason to do that."

On social media, some have defended the act as an “act of courtesy” towards Lionel Messi and his latest achievement.