Messi hopes to play at 2026 World Cup
Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has expressed a strong desire to participate in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite his advancing age and uncertain physical condition. In an interview, the 38-year-old (turning 39 in June 2026) emphasised that the decision to compete in the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada will depend on how he feels during the next season with Inter Miami CF.
“It’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup and I would love to,” Messi said. “I would like to be there, to be well and be an important part of helping my national team, if I am there. And I’m going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start preseason next year … to see if I can really be 100 %, if I can be useful to the group.”
He acknowledged the challenge that his age presents, saying that while the most normal expectation might be that he won’t be there, he is motivated and eager to defend the World Cup crown for Argentina.
At the same time, Messi has left the door open rather than making a firm commitment. He indicated that he will monitor his fitness, readiness and usefulness to the team before making a definitive decision.
As Argentina prepares for the tournament and builds toward defending its title, Messi’s potential inclusion would mark a sixth World Cup appearance an exceptional feat by any standard.
