Lionel Messi, the Inter Miami forward and Argentina captain, acknowledged that his participation in the 2026 World Cup would be unlikely because of his advancing age. The remarks came through journalist Fabrizio Romano via a Telegram channel, reflecting the star’s candid assessment about competing at a tournament three years away.
In a rare public moment, Messi stated, 2026 World Cup seems difficult given how old I will be then, but we will see. His words were shared as part of ongoing discussions about the experienced attacker’s future schedule and commitments on the international stage.
On October 30, Messi added another highlight to a glittering career by winning the Ballon d’Or for the eighth time, underscoring his continued impact at the pinnacle of world football.
Messi reached the pinnacle of global success with Argentina in December 2022, clinching the world title in a memorable campaign. After a two-year spell with Paris Saint-Germain, the Argentine star switched to Inter Miami in the summer of 2023. He then claimed the League Cup on August 20, taking home his first trophy in American soccer. In his first14 appearances for Inter Miami, Messi produced 11 goals and 5 assists, a remarkable start to his MLS chapter.
Earlier in his career, Messi starred for Barcelona from 2003 to 2021. Financial constraints in the Spanish league, and the inability to reach a new contract agreement despite both sides’ wishes, led to him becoming a free agent. He has even admitted a willingness to sacrifice a portion of his earnings to remain with the club he helped to redefine the modern game.
Messi previously brought the coveted Golden Ball to the Inter Miami Academy, symbolizing his long-standing influence on the sport and his ongoing connection to the club’s development program.