The FIFA World Cup will move to North America, as the 2026 edition will be hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada. Just like every World Cup since 2010, the initial conversation is dominated by two players, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Both the icons of the game are in the twilight of their careers, and the biggest question that stands in front of them is whether they will participate in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi commented on the topic recently when the Argentine talked to French journalist Florent Torchut.
The 2022 World Cup winner sounds pessimistic about the idea: “Considering the age I will be at that time, it seems difficult, but we’ll see“. The Argentine will turn 39 in the summer of 2026, just a month before the tournament. The main issue will be physical fitness. Modern athletes and sports science have come a long way, but even then, 39 will find it difficult to perform to the best of his abilities.
🚨🚨 Leo Messi: “The 2026 World Cup? Considering the age I will be at that time, it seems difficult, but we’ll see..” @FlorentTorchut pic.twitter.com/YxY2pWerxg
— All About Argentina 🛎🇦🇷 (@AlbicelesteTalk) November 4, 2023
Back in 2018, many experts and commentators predicted that elimination at the hands of France in the Round of 16 was the last chance for Lionel Messi. Messi was 31 at the time, and for experts, performing in the 30s at the World Cup can be a rare feat.
In 2026, at 39, Messi might decide to hang up his boots rather than be a burden to his other teammates. The added motivation of winning the first World Cup will also be missing after winning the 2022 edition. The only motivation for Lionel Messi might be, once again, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Cristiano Ronaldo on participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup
In the case of Cristiano Ronaldo, the Portuguese will face an even harder battle, as he will be 41 when the 2026 edition comes knocking. Fitness will be an issue for Ronaldo himself, but the Portuguese is one of the rare athletes who can maintain his fitness in his 40s.
There were initial reports that Ronaldo might hang up his boots on the international scene after participating in the 2024 Euro; however, Al-Nassr, the current home of Ronaldo, is planning to extend his stay at the Saudi club. The impact of Ronaldo at the club has prompted the management to offer an extension at the Riyadh-based club beyond 2025.
Portugal before Ronaldo:
Only qualified for 3 World Cups
Only qualified for 3 Euros
No major trophiesPortugal since Ronaldo:
Qualified for 5 World Cups
Qualified for 6 Euros
Won 2 major trophies🐐🇵🇹 pic.twitter.com/pUeyiCeaxM
— Frank Khalid OBE (@FrankKhalidUK) November 3, 2023
The reports of extensions gave rise to speculation that Ronaldo might participate in the 2026 World Cup. The Portuguese forward commented on the issue recently: “I still love football despite my age, as I still love playing, scoring goals, and winning games. That’s why I will continue until my body says, ‘Cristiano, it’s over.’ But, so far, I feel good, as I’m still helping the team”.
The comments from Ronaldo echoed the same sentiments as those of Lionel Messi. Both the icons are counting on their bodies and their fitness. The final decision will always depend on whether they can provide value to the team by being in the squad. Both sets of fans will hope they can witness the magic of the duo for the final time in 2026.