Lionel Messi has cast doubt on his participation in the FIFA World Cup 2026, suggesting that his age and physical condition will be the deciding factors. The 38-year-old Argentine star, who is at the twilight of his career, made the comments following his final home World Cup qualifying match, a dominant 3-0 victory over Venezuela in Buenos Aires where he scored twice.
In a post-match statement, Messi was candid about his future. "As I've said before, I don't think I'll play another World Cup. At my age, it's only logical to think I might not." He explained that his decision will come down to how he feels physically. "Day by day, I try to feel good and, above all, be honest with myself. When I feel good, I enjoy it. But when I don't, honestly, I don't enjoy it - and if that's the case, I'd rather not be there."
Despite the uncertainty, Messi has not made a definitive decision. He stated that he will monitor his condition after the current MLS season and into the 2026 preseason. "We'll see. I haven't made a decision yet about the World Cup. Match by match, I'll finish the season, then have preseason, and in six months, I'll see how I feel."
The match at Estadio Monumental was an emotional one for Messi. He expressed his immense joy at being able to finish his competitive home games in front of his people. "To be able to finish this way, here is what I always dreamed of - finishing with my people." The Argentina captain also reflected on his difficult journey with the national team, saying, "A lot was said over the years, but I'll keep the good moments we built with a group that tried but couldn't win it all, until it finally happened for me and a few from my generation. Everything we lived through was beautiful."
Messi's potential absence would mark a new era for La Albiceleste. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, who led Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in 2022, has been an integral part of the team's success for nearly two decades. While his future on the international stage remains in question, he has already confirmed that he will not play in Argentina's final qualifying match against Ecuador to rest and recover from a hamstring injury.
