First calf born at Expo Rural de Palermo named Lionela after Messi

The 138th Expo Rural de Palermo saw the birth of its first calf, a Limangus heifer named Lionela, in a tribute to Lionel Messi. The calf was born on July 18, 2026, in the box of Cabaña La Tonita, owned by Laureano Barilá, and quickly became a highlight for visitors and breeders.

Genetics and lineage

Lionela comes from elite bloodlines: her mother is Maslacq Mina, champion heifer of the 2024 Angus Autumn Show, and her father is Maslacq Perseo, Bi Grand Champion of the 2025/2026 Limangus Autumn Show. “The father was chosen Champion last autumn. He is a bull with high aspirations at Palermo today. And the mother was champion heifer of the 2024 Angus Autumn Show. Both are our offspring,” said breeder Fernando Luís. Source: clarin The calf weighed just 31 kg at birth, a trait praised as characteristic of the breed. Source: infobae

Name significance

The name was chosen as a homage to Lionel Messi, with Argentina playing in the World Cup final the next day. “It was the first name that came to mind, referring to the event that has us all crazy,” explained Luís. Source: clarin The Argentine Limangus Breeders Association said the birth symbolizes “the present and future of livestock: genetics, production, and life.” Source: infobae