Legendary Tribute to French Football and National Team

Thierry Henry has paid tribute to Antoine Griezmann following the forward’s retirement from the France national football team. During a CBS broadcast on April 14, 2026, following a match against FC Barcelona, the former striker praised Griezmann’s career and contributions to the national game.

Henry referred to Griezmann as the Little Prince and highlighted the elegance and commitment that defined the Atlético de Madrid player’s tenure with the national team. Henry thanked Griezmann for his impact on French football, noting that the player has become one of the most iconic figures in the team’s history.

Thank you for everything you have done for French football, the national team and football in general. You have given me a lot.

Thierry Henry

Transition to Major League Soccer

The broadcast also served as confirmation of Griezmann’s next professional destination. The forward is set to join Orlando in Major League Soccer (MLS).

Henry, who previously played in the United States with the New York Red Bulls, offered to act as an advisor for Griezmann during his transition to American soccer. Henry stated that he would be happy to help with anything the player needs during his time in Orlando.

National Team Context and Official Tributes

Griezmann departs a national team that currently holds the number one spot in the FIFA rankings as of April 1, 2026. The squad continues to be managed by head coach Didier Deschamps and captained by Kylian Mbappé.

While Griezmann has retired, the France national football team has two remaining dates scheduled in early June 2026 to officially pay tribute to the player:

• A match against Côte d’Ivoire in Nantes.
• A friendly match in Lille.

An earlier opportunity for a tribute was considered for March 2025 at the Stade de France, where Griezmann would have been honored alongside Olivier Giroud. However, that event did not take place as Griezmann was unavailable at that time.