Iconic Footballers Who Will Likely Play Their Last World Cup in 2026
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be unlike any before it, an expanded 48-team tournament that promises drama, emotion, and a potential farewell to an entire generation of football legends.
For nearly two decades, players like Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, Luka Modric, and Neymar have defined world football. But by 2026, many of these icons will be nearing the end of their careers, preparing for one final appearance on the game’s biggest stage.
Here’s a look at the iconic footballers who are expected to play their final World Cup in 2026 and what their farewell could mean for the sport.
1. Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
At 41 years old in 2026, Cristiano Ronaldo is set to make history as he plays in his sixth and final World Cup, a record unmatched by any male footballer.
Despite his age, Ronaldo continues to perform at a high level for Al Nassr and remains a vital part of Portugal’s setup. His professionalism and fitness have allowed him to stay competitive well beyond the usual peak years.
The tournament will likely be Ronaldo’s emotional farewell, capping off a World Cup journey that began in 2006 and included goals in five separate editions, an unmatched feat.
His last mission: to lead Portugal to one final push for the trophy that has eluded him.
2. Lionel Messi (Argentina)
For Lionel Messi, the 2026 World Cup will almost certainly be his last.
The Argentine legend, who finally lifted the trophy in Qatar 2022, will be 39 years old when the tournament begins. While he remains active with Inter Miami and continues to feature for Argentina, Messi himself has hinted that 2026 would mark the end of his World Cup career.
After achieving everything in football from World Cup glory to Copa América triumphs, Messi’s final tournament will be about enjoying the game and leading Argentina’s next generation on one last global journey.
3. Luka Modric (Croatia)
Luka Modric has defied time for more than a decade, but by 2026, the Croatian midfield maestro will be 40 years old.
Having led Croatia to the 2018 World Cup Final and the 2022 semifinals, Modric’s impact on international football is legendary. His intelligence, passing precision, and leadership have been the foundation of Croatia’s golden generation.
The 2026 World Cup will almost certainly be his final bow, marking the end of an era not just for him but for Croatia’s most successful footballing generation.
4. Neymar Jr. (Brazil)
Neymar Jr. will be 34 years old in 2026, and for the Brazilian superstar, this tournament may be his last shot at World Cup glory.
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Having suffered heartbreaks and injuries in previous editions, Neymar’s career with the Seleção has been a mix of brilliance and frustration. Now fully recovered and back in international contention, he’ll aim to guide Brazil back to the top.
Already the nation’s all-time top scorer, Neymar’s final World Cup could be his chance to secure the one trophy that has always eluded him.
5. Robert Lewandowski (Poland)
At 37 years old, Robert Lewandowski will likely make his final World Cup appearance for Poland in 2026.
For over a decade, Lewandowski has carried his national team through qualification campaigns almost single-handedly. While age may slow him, his finishing ability, professionalism, and experience remain invaluable.
This World Cup could serve as a farewell for Poland’s greatest modern footballer and possibly one last chance to reach the knockout rounds.
6. Manuel Neuer (Germany)
Manuel Neuer, Germany’s long-time captain and one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history, will turn 40 in 2026.
After lifting the 2014 World Cup and redefining the role of a modern goalkeeper, Neuer remains a vital figure for Germany whenever fit. 2026 could be his final tournament, a symbolic end to an extraordinary career that has influenced goalkeeping across the world.
7. Antoine Griezmann (France)
By 2026, Antoine Griezmann will be 35 years old and approaching the end of his international journey.
Having helped France win the 2018 World Cup and reach the 2022 final, Griezmann has been a consistent performer for Les Bleus for nearly a decade.
Though his pace may decline, his intelligence, passing, and work rate ensure he’ll still play a crucial role as France blend experience with youth in North America.
8. Kevin De Bruyne (Belgium)
At 35 years old, Kevin De Bruyne will likely lead Belgium’s “golden generation” in their final collective push for silverware.
One of the most technically gifted midfielders of his era, De Bruyne has been the creative engine of Belgium’s success over the past decade.
After years of coming close, 2026 may represent Belgium’s last realistic shot at a major international triumph and for De Bruyne, a fitting farewell to an extraordinary career.
9. Karim Benzema (France)
If still active in 2026, Karim Benzema would be 38 years old, and 2026 could mark his final World Cup appearance.
After returning to France’s national team setup in 2021, Benzema’s form and professionalism have remained exceptional. While competition for forward spots will be fierce, his experience could still prove vital for Les Bleus.
If selected, 2026 would be the ultimate farewell for one of France’s greatest-ever strikers.
The End of a Golden Generation
The 2026 World Cup will represent more than just another global tournament, it will be a farewell to football’s golden generation.
From Messi’s magic and Ronaldo’s longevity to Modric’s elegance and Neymar’s flair, these players have shaped an entire era of world football. Their final appearance on the international stage will symbolize the closing of a chapter that defined the sport for over 15 years.
At the same time, the tournament will also mark the rise of a new generation, with stars like Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, and Erling Haaland ready to carry the torch forward.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be both a celebration and a farewell, one final chance to watch legends like Ronaldo, Messi, Modric, and Neymar compete for football’s most prestigious trophy.
For fans, it will be an emotional reminder of how these players shaped the modern era, inspired generations, and left behind legacies that will stand the test of time.
As these icons prepare for their final bow, the stage is set for a World Cup filled with nostalgia, passion, and history in the making.
FAQs
Q1. Will Lionel Messi play in the 2026 World Cup?
A. Yes. Messi has confirmed his desire to represent Argentina, but it will likely be his final tournament.
Q2. How old will Cristiano Ronaldo be at the 2026 World Cup?
A. Ronaldo will be 41 years old and could make history as the first male player to appear in six World Cups.
Q3. Will Neymar play in the 2026 World Cup?
A. Yes. Neymar is expected to return from injury and lead Brazil for one final campaign.
Q4. Which players from Europe are likely to retire after 2026?
A. Luka Modric, Manuel Neuer, Robert Lewandowski, Antoine Griezmann, and Kevin De Bruyne are all expected to end their international careers after 2026.
Q5. Which younger stars could take over after these legends retire?
A. Players like Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, Vinícius Júnior, Pedri, and Erling Haaland represent the next era of global football talent.
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