Lionel Messi, who has dedicated nearly two decades to his illustrious career, has expressed his ambition to participate in the 2026 World Cup in North America. The iconic Argentine forward acknowledges that his age and fitness will play pivotal roles in deciding his involvement as his team seeks to defend the title they won in 2022.
Recently, Messi extended his contract with Major League Soccer team Inter Miami through 2028, indicating he is not contemplating retirement just yet, even as he approaches the age of 39 next June. In a revealing interview with NBC News, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner stated he would evaluate his physical condition next year before making a final decision on his World Cup participation.
“It’s something extraordinary to be able to be in a World Cup, and I would love to,” Messi remarked. He emphasized the importance of being fit and able to contribute significantly to his team, stating, “I’m going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start preseason next year with Inter.”
Messi reflected on his international success, highlighting the joy of winning the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which he called “the dream of my life.” This victory came after a long wait for international accolades, as he had previously only secured the 2021 Copa America trophy before achieving World Cup glory.
With a storied career that began at age 17 with Barcelona, Messi has amassed an impressive record of 195 appearances and 114 goals for Argentina, making another World Cup appearance a potential career milestone. If he takes the field again, it would be his sixth World Cup, adding to his legacy and the enthusiasm for football in North America as the region prepares to host this major event.
Messi’s continued presence in the sport, especially during his time with Inter Miami, is not just about personal success; it has become a catalyst for soccer’s growth in the United States. Since his arrival, there has been unprecedented interest in Major League Soccer, a promising sign for the future of the sport.
As the anticipation builds for the 2026 tournament, fans remain hopeful that Messi will grace the World Cup stage once again, contributing not only to Argentina’s chances but also inspiring future generations of soccer players. His legacy as one of the greatest players of all time is ongoing, and his commitment to his national team exemplifies his enduring passion for the game.